Where are Henry Rifles Made?
The Henry Rifle is a legendary lever-action rifle that has been a staple in American firearm history for over 160 years. Its iconic design and reputation for reliability and accuracy have made it a favorite among hunters and collectors alike. But where are these guns actually made? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the origins and manufacturing process of the Henry Rifle.
Brief History of the Henry Rifle
The Henry Rifle was first introduced in 1860 by Benjamin Tyler Henry, a gunsmith from Norwich, Connecticut. During the American Civil War, the Henry Rifle gained notoriety for its reliable performance and high rate of fire, earning the nickname "The repeater" among soldiers. After the war, the Henry Rifle continued to be popular among hunters and law enforcement, and its production remained strong until the early 20th century.
Manufacturing Process
Today, the Henry Repeating Arms company is located in Bayonne, New Jersey, and has been manufacturing Henry Rifles since 1996. The company’s commitment to quality and tradition has led to a revival of the Henry brand, with new models being introduced regularly.
Here is an overview of the manufacturing process:
• Roughing-In: The manufacturing process begins with a CNC machine cutting out the receiver and barrel from stainless steel blanks.
• Barrel Making: The barrel is then machined to precise tolerances using a combination of CNC machining and hand-finishing.
• Stock Making: The stock is made from select hardwoods, carefully selected for grain pattern, density, and color. The stock is then assembled using a combination of precision-cut parts and hand-carved details.
• Assembly: The receiver and barrel are then assembled using a proprietary method that ensures precise alignment and a secure fit.
• Bluing and Finishing: The rifle is then subjected to a series of electroplating and hand-rubbed finish processes to achieve the signature Henry "Blue" finish.
• Final Assembly and QA: The rifle is then assembled with all the metal and wood components, followed by a thorough quality control inspection to ensure that each rifle meets Henry’s exacting standards.
Domestic vs. Foreign Manufacture
The Henry Rifle is one of the few firearms still made entirely in the United States. Unlike many other firearm manufacturers that have outsourced production to foreign countries, Henry has maintained its commitment to American-made quality and craftsmanship. Here are some benefits to domestic manufacture:
• Quality Control: With local production, Henry can more easily maintain a high level of quality control, from raw materials to finished products.
• Customization: Domestic production allows Henry to offer more customization options, including barrel lengths, caliber options, and aesthetic variations.
• Customer Support: As a local company, Henry can offer better customer support, including on-site service and warranty repairs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Henry Rifle is still made entirely in the United States, at the company’s headquarters in Bayonne, New Jersey. From the early days of its introduction during the American Civil War to its modern revival, the Henry Rifle has remained synonymous with quality, reliability, and tradition. Whether you’re a hunter, collector, or enthusiast, there’s no denying the charm and craftsmanship of the Henry Rifle. With its iconic design and American-made pride, the Henry Rifle remains a legendary firearm that is sure to endure for generations to come.
