Few lever actions have managed to bridge the gap between traditional handling and modern centrefire performance quite like the Henry H14 Long Ranger 20in 5rd Lever Action Centrefire Rifle in .223 Rem/5.56 NATO. Built on Henry's Long Ranger platform, this is a lever action engineered from the ground up to deliver the kind of accuracy that varmint hunters and pest controllers demand, without sacrificing the smooth, fast cycling that makes lever guns so satisfying to run in the field. The combination of a free-floated barrel, a 6-lug rotating bolt, and a detachable box magazine puts this squarely in a class of its own among lever action rifles. Henry backs all of this with their well-known "Made in America Or Not Made At All" commitment, and the craftsmanship shows in every detail.

Henry H14 Long Ranger 20in 5rd Lever Action Centrefire Rifle - 223 Rem/5.56 NATO Key Features

• Calibre: Chambered in .223 Rem/5.56 NATO, a flat-shooting, high-velocity round well suited to varmint hunting, pest control, and range shooting. The 1:9 twist rate stabilises a wide range of .223 projectile weights effectively.
• Free-Floated Barrel: The 20-inch (50.8cm) barrel makes no contact with the stock from the chamber forward, eliminating pressure points that can shift point of impact. The target crown at the muzzle protects the rifling and promotes consistent bullet exit for improved accuracy.
• 6-Lug Rotating Bolt: A true rotating bolt design with six locking lugs, more typically associated with bolt action rifles. This design provides a solid, symmetrical lockup that contributes directly to accuracy and allows the Long Ranger to handle centrefire pressures with confidence.
• Geared Bolt Drive: Henry's proprietary geared bolt drive system links the lever to the bolt via a gear mechanism rather than a traditional link. This delivers a smoother, more controlled cycling action compared to conventional lever designs, and contributes to the overall reliability of feeding and extraction.
• Detachable Box Magazine: A 5-round detachable box magazine allows for quick reloads in the field. This is a meaningful departure from traditional tubular-magazine lever actions, and also means pointed (spitzer) projectiles can be used safely.
• Side Ejection: Cases eject to the side rather than straight up, keeping the receiver top clear for easy scope mounting without the need for offset solutions.
• Receiver: Aerospace-grade aluminium alloy construction with a hard anodised black finish. Lightweight without compromising strength, and the anodising provides a durable, corrosion-resistant surface.
• Drilled, Tapped and Scope Mount Included: The receiver comes pre-drilled and tapped, and a scope mount is included out of the box. The rifle ships without sights fitted, so optics are the intended primary sighting solution.
• American Walnut Stock and Forend: A genuine American walnut stock and forend with cut checkering on the pistol grip and forend for a secure, confident hold in varying conditions. The stock includes a rubber butt pad to soften recoil and protect the finish.
• Length of Pull: 14 inches (35.56cm), a standard adult fit that suits most shooters without modification.
• Transfer Bar Safety: The transfer bar mechanism means the rifle cannot discharge unless the trigger is deliberately pulled, even with the hammer fully cocked. The exposed hammer with extension allows for easy, deliberate cocking and decocking.
• Sling Swivel Studs: Factory-fitted sling swivel studs front and rear allow direct attachment of most aftermarket slings, practical for carrying during extended time in the field.
• Overall Specifications: Overall length 40.5 inches (102.87cm), weight 7 lbs (3.18kg). A well-balanced, manageable package for a centrefire lever action in this calibre.

The Long Ranger in .223 Rem is a genuinely compelling option for hunters and pest controllers who want the handling character of a lever action combined with the mechanical accuracy of a rotating bolt design. It is a well-thought-out rifle that earns its place in the field.