According to Henry rifle expert and author Wiley Sword, "The highest serial number for a Henry rifle in the 'traditional' range is 12832, yet several examples of standard Henry rifles have been reported with high serial numbers, including into the 14000 range" (see page 72 of "The Historic Henry Rifle"). Offered here is one of the Henrys that fall into the 14000 range (no. 14248), making it one of the last Henry Rifles manufactured with a round top receiver. This example was manufactured in 1866. Serial numbers for the Henry Rifle overlap with those of the Model 1866 from 1865 to 1866. The barrel has an absent front sight, is fitted with a replacement notch rear sight and is stamped with the two-line Henry's patent date/New Haven address legend ahead of the rear sight and the serial number "14248" at the breech. The left barrel flat is stamped "37." As on the barrel, the matching serial number "14248" is stamped on the left side of the lower tang, stock inlet, and buttplate. The left side of the stock has a sling swivel, and the left side of the barrel has a screw fastened ring for a sling hook. The buttstock is fitted with later style brass buttplate with pointed upper extension. During the Civil War the Henry Rifle was the most advanced firearm available, mostly through private purchase, to soldiers who wanted to take advantage of the sustained firepower of a 15-shot magazine rifle. The firepower of the Henry Rifles continued to be valued on the frontier in the years that followed. The smooth rounded brass frame Henrys, like this example, were among the last manufactured post-Civil War. Most Henry rifles were "working guns;" the surviving examples typically exhibit wear associated with years of hard use.

Very good. The barrel and magazine retain 70% old refinished dull blue finish with light spotting. The brass has a bright appearance with minor handling marks. The receiver side plates are tight fitting. The stock is good with an overcoat of varnish, a few hairline stress cracks in the wrist area, and minor-moderate dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent. A true survivor of the last manufactured Henrys, the gun that started the "Winchester won the West" rifle legacy. A must have to complete your Winchester lever action collection.