Steel is the story here. Henry makes this single shot with a steel receiver rather than the alloy found on cheaper break-actions, so it stands up to years of rough handling. It is chambered in 20 gauge, which is a fine all-around size.

Twenty gauge is a good fit for smaller shooters and for upland hunters who value a lightweight gun. It throws a pattern wide enough for doves and quail, and it has enough power for rabbits, squirrels, and close-in turkeys with the right load. Recoil is lighter than a 12 gauge, which keeps shooters comfortable at the range.

A break-action single shot is simple and safe. You open it, drop in a shell, close it, and fire. There is no magazine, which makes it clear when the gun is empty, and it requires less cleaning than a repeater.

It is an honest gun for a first shotgun, a truck gun, or a fencerow gun. Wipe it down after use and keep it dry. It ships to your FFL dealer, and the background check takes place there when you pick it up.