Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in firearms and accessories. The Henry Big Boy Carbine Color Case Hardened 357 Mag is a classic lever-action rifle chambered in a versatile pistol caliber. This model stands out with its genuine color case hardened receiver and compact carbine length. Available now for $899.00.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
Why The Henry Big Boy Carbine Color Case Hardened .357 Mag?
As an FFL dealer, I’ve seen my share of lever guns come through the shop. The Henry Big Boy series, especially this carbine with the color case hardened finish, always catches the eye. It’s a solid, well-built rifle that handles like a dream. Chambered in .357 Magnum, it’s incredibly versatile for plinking, hunting small to medium game, or even as a home defense option. The color case hardening isn’t just for looks; it’s a traditional finish that adds character and protection to the receiver. This isn’t some safe queen; it’s a working rifle that’s built to last and looks good doing it. For anyone who appreciates classic firearms with modern reliability, the henry big boy carbine color case hardened 357 mag is a strong contender. I’ve handled these, and the action is consistently smooth right out of the box, something you appreciate when you’re cycling rounds quickly. It’s a rifle that feels right in your hands, whether you’re out in the Kansas timber or just enjoying some range time.
| Product Type | Lever-Action Rifle |
|---|---|
| Material | Blued Steel Barrel, Brass Buttplate, Color Case Hardened Steel Receiver |
| Manufacturing | Henry Repeating Arms, USA |
| Finish | Blued Barrel, Color Case Hardened Receiver, Polished Brass Furniture |
| Hardness/Quality | High-grade steel and brass components, durable finish |
| Compatibility | .357 Magnum / .38 Special ammunition |
| Installation/Usage | Ready to shoot, tube magazine loading |
| Weight | 6.5 lbs (unloaded) |
| Dimensions | Overall Length: 34 inches, Barrel Length: 16.5 inches |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Condition | New |
| SKU | H006CC |
Key Features of the Henry Big Boy Color Case Hardened .357 Mag
- Genuine Color Case Hardened Receiver: Not just a coating, but a traditional heat treatment process that creates unique, vibrant patterns and enhances durability. This finish is a hallmark of classic firearms and sets this henry big boy color case hardened rifle .357 mag apart.
- Smooth Lever Action: Henry is known for its buttery-smooth actions, and this carbine is no exception. It cycles rounds reliably and quickly, making it a joy to shoot.
- Versatile .357 Magnum Chambering: This rifle handles both .357 Magnum and .38 Special ammunition, offering flexibility for range use, hunting, or defense.
- Compact Carbine Design: With a 16.5-inch barrel and a 34-inch overall length, it’s maneuverable in tight spaces and easy to carry in the field. Ideal for brush hunting or vehicle transport.
- Adjustable Sights: Features a fully adjustable semi-buckhorn rear sight with a brass bead front sight, allowing for precise aiming.
- Tube Loading Magazine: A classic and reliable design, holding 7 rounds of .357 Magnum or 10 rounds of .38 Special.
- American Made Quality: Manufactured by Henry Repeating Arms, a company with a strong reputation for producing reliable, American-made firearms.
Who Is This Henry Big Boy Carbine For?
Buy it if:
- ✅ You appreciate classic firearm aesthetics and the traditional color case hardened finish.
- ✅ You’re looking for a versatile lever-action rifle for plinking, hunting small to medium game (like whitetail in Kansas), or home defense.
- ✅ You want a reliable, American-made firearm with a smooth action.
- ✅ You already own a .357 Magnum revolver and want a rifle that shares ammunition.
- ✅ You value a compact and maneuverable carbine for field use or storage.
- ✅ You’re a fan of Henry Repeating Arms and their commitment to quality.
Skip it if:
- ❌ You need a rifle for long-range precision shooting; while accurate, lever actions have their limits compared to bolt actions (see our Rifles for bolt-action options).
- ❌ You prefer high-capacity detachable magazines; this uses a traditional tube magazine.
- ❌ You’re on a very tight budget and looking for the absolute cheapest rifle; quality costs a bit more.
Henry Big Boy Carbine Color Case Hardened 357 Mag vs. The Competition
| Feature | Henry Big Boy Carbine CCH .357 Mag | Marlin 1894C .357 Mag | Rossi R92 Carbine .357 Mag |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Blued Steel, Brass, Color Case Hardened Steel | Alloy Steel, Blued Finish | Stainless Steel or Blued Steel |
| Quality | High-grade, smooth action, traditional finish | Good, solid build, classic design | Decent, can be a bit rougher out of the box |
| Compatibility | .357 Mag / .38 Spl | .357 Mag / .38 Spl | .357 Mag / .38 Spl |
| Shipping | Ships from Kansas Gunshop (Wichita, KS) | Varies by retailer | Varies by retailer |
| Lifespan/Durability | Excellent, built to last generations | Very good, known for longevity | Good, can be improved with aftermarket parts |
| Price | ~$899.00 | ~$1,200.00 – $1,500.00 (if new production) | ~$600.00 – $750.00 |
When you’re looking at a henry big boy case hardened 357 review, it’s common to compare it to other lever guns. The Marlin 1894C is a classic, but new production models can be hard to find and expensive. The Rossi R92 is a more budget-friendly option, but often requires some break-in or minor tuning to get the action as smooth as a Henry. For a blend of classic looks, smooth operation, and American-made quality, the Henry Big Boy Carbine Color Case Hardened .357 Mag really hits a sweet spot. While some might look at a henry case hardened 44 mag review if they want more power, for versatility and recoil management, the .357 Mag is hard to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lever Action Rifles
What is the effective range of a .357 Magnum lever-action rifle?
For hunting purposes, a .357 Magnum lever-action is typically effective out to about 100-150 yards on deer-sized game, assuming good shot placement. For plinking or target shooting, you can stretch it further, but bullet drop becomes more significant past 150 yards.
Can I shoot .38 Special ammunition in a .357 Magnum Henry Big Boy?
Yes, absolutely. The Henry Big Boy Carbine Color Case Hardened 357 Mag is designed to safely and reliably chamber and fire both .357 Magnum and .38 Special ammunition. This makes it a very economical choice for practice and reduces recoil.
Is the color case hardened finish durable?
The color case hardened finish is a traditional heat treatment that hardens the surface of the steel, making it quite durable against wear and corrosion. However, like any finish, it’s not impervious to harsh chemicals or extreme abuse. Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity and beauty.
What kind of maintenance does a lever-action rifle require?
Standard firearm maintenance is recommended. This includes regular cleaning of the bore, bolt, and receiver, especially after shooting, to remove powder residue and prevent corrosion. Lubricate moving parts as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Pay special attention to the color case hardened finish, avoiding harsh abrasives or solvents.
Where can I buy rifles online?
You can buy rifles online, including this Henry Big Boy Carbine Color Case Hardened 357 Mag, right here at Kansas Gunshop (kansas-gunshop.com). We facilitate FFL transfers and ensure a smooth, compliant purchasing process for our customers.
Is the Henry Big Boy Carbine suitable for hunting?
Yes, the Henry Big Boy Carbine in .357 Mag is an excellent choice for hunting small to medium-sized game, such as deer, hogs, and coyotes, especially in brushy areas or where shorter ranges are common. Its compact size and quick handling make it very effective in the field.
What’s the capacity of the Henry Big Boy Carbine in .357 Mag?
The tube magazine of the Henry Big Boy Carbine Color Case Hardened 357 Mag holds 7 rounds of .357 Magnum ammunition or 10 rounds of .38 Special ammunition, giving you good capacity for a lever-action rifle.
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