Rimfire Central Firearm Forum banner
  • Whether you're a greenhorn or a seasoned veteran, your collection's next piece is at Bass Pro Shops. Shop Now.

    Advertisement

Henry Long Ranger .308

1 reading
1.7K views 9 replies 4 participants last post by  Chickenhater  
#1 ·
I realize brand questions end up devolving into “I own this it’s the best”, BUT I’m still going to ask. I do not hunt much anymore, but can see going on some guided hunting trips in retirement. Sort of following in my father’s footsteps. Although Africa isn’t in my budget🤣.
Anyways I’m intrigued by Henry’s LongRanger .308. It has gotten a lot of very favorable reviews. Including a comparison at ChuckHawks that rated it an A- only because of weight. (Which supposedly makes it shoot better).
All the other popular .308 rifles. Remington, Weatherby, Browning, Savage were rated B’s and C’s. I realize the modification for the others is infinitely possible.
Just as a target shooter and later hunter I can’t see why the Henry isn’t for me. Other than finding one right now. I can buy a nickel plated at a whopping $2000, but will most likely wait for the black anodized receiver for half the cost.

So tell me why I’m wrong🤣
 
#4 ·
I don't see it as a bad choice for the animals you list. Though elk might be a bit too large for the .308's optimum bullet range. I'm a lifelong (48 years (has it been THAT long !!)) .308 Winchester hunter and I have complete confidence in it. I have no experience with the Henry levers, but I have heard a lot of good and no bad comments made about them.

Good hunting !
 
#5 ·
Just went to Gunsmith today to see rifle and drop off a scope. I was impressed with the feel of the rifle. It was much lighter than my 30-30 octagon barrel. The bolt-lever action has a much different feel to it. Very smooth.
Hoping it shoots as well as the 30-30, or better. With Hornady ammo I was getting 1.25-1.5 inch groups at 50 yards. That was just the first 30 rounds. The 308 should do that at 100 plus hopefully.
I went with a Vortex Viper 2-10x42 for a scope. I just dont see me shooting beyond 250 yards on a regular basis.
Should be ready in a week
 
#10 ·
I am assuming you dont reload yet, something to consider taking up in your retirement, it will offer the best accuracy if you roll your own. It can be challenging to find factory ammo that shoots to the rifles potential. However, testing ammo from different mfg's and with different bullet weights and shapes will eventually yeild an acceptable performer. Though you can shorten the list by verifying the twist rate of your rifles barrel. Example, if your rifle has a TR of 1:12 then stay with bullets 168gr or lighter, with bullets in the 150gr range being optimal.
Good luck with your new rifle and happy hunting.