Henry Mare's Leg: A Look At The 22 WMR Lever Action

by Jhon Lennon 52 views

Henry Mare's Leg 22 WMR Lever Action Pistol: A Deep Dive

Alright, gun enthusiasts, let's dive into the fascinating world of the Henry Mare's Leg 22 WMR lever action pistol! This isn't your average firearm; it's a piece of history, a conversation starter, and a whole lot of fun rolled into one. If you're looking for a unique addition to your collection or a plinking pistol that'll turn heads at the range, the Mare's Leg deserves a serious look. We'll be exploring everything from its design and features to its performance and why it's become a favorite among shooters.

First off, what exactly is the Henry Mare's Leg? Essentially, it's a shortened version of a lever-action rifle, designed to be fired from the hip. This distinctive style was popularized by the legendary Steve McQueen in the TV series "Wanted: Dead or Alive," where he wielded a similar firearm. The term "Mare's Leg" refers to the pistol's short barrel and the absence of a shoulder stock, making it a compact and maneuverable handgun. The Henry Repeating Arms Company has masterfully captured this iconic look and feel, offering it in various calibers, including the potent .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR), the star of our show today.

The .22 WMR chambering is a significant aspect of the Mare's Leg's appeal. Unlike the more common .22 Long Rifle, the .22 WMR offers a substantial boost in power and range. This makes the Mare's Leg a more versatile pistol, capable of handling targets at further distances and even serving as a viable option for small game hunting. The .22 WMR ammunition produces a higher velocity and greater energy than the .22 LR, translating to flatter trajectories and increased stopping power. The advantages of this round are obvious when you are looking for the best performance.

The Henry Mare's Leg 22 WMR doesn't just look cool; it's also built with quality and functionality in mind. The lever-action mechanism is smooth and reliable, a hallmark of Henry firearms. The rifle-style sights are easy to acquire and allow for accurate target acquisition, even without a shoulder stock. The receiver is typically made from a durable alloy, and the wooden furniture, often crafted from American walnut, adds a touch of classic elegance. The gun has a classic design, and is very appealing for those who are looking for the style. The overall build quality is impressive, ensuring years of reliable performance. The magazine tube holds a generous number of rounds, providing ample firepower for plinking or hunting. The lever action is incredibly quick to operate, allowing for rapid follow-up shots.

When handling the Mare's Leg, it's important to understand that it's not a conventional handgun. The lack of a shoulder stock necessitates a unique shooting stance. Many shooters adopt a "hip-shooting" style, where the pistol is held at the hip, and the sights are quickly aligned with the target. Others choose to bring the pistol closer to their eye, using the sights in a more traditional manner. Regardless of your chosen method, practice is key. Becoming proficient with the Mare's Leg takes time and dedication. The unique shooting style requires adjusting and adapting to achieve optimal accuracy.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's break down some of the key features and specifications of the Henry Mare's Leg 22 WMR lever action pistol:

  • Caliber: .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR) - This is the heart of the pistol's performance, providing increased power and range over the .22 LR.
  • Action: Lever-action - Known for its smooth and reliable operation, the lever-action mechanism is a joy to use.
  • Capacity: Varies depending on the model, but generally around 7-10 rounds - Sufficient capacity for most shooting scenarios.
  • Barrel Length: Typically around 12 inches - The short barrel contributes to the pistol's unique look and handling.
  • Overall Length: Approximately 24 inches - The compact size makes it easy to handle and transport.
  • Weight: Around 5-6 pounds (unloaded) - Provides a balanced feel and helps absorb recoil.
  • Sights: Rifle-style sights - Allow for accurate target acquisition.
  • Stock: Typically made from American walnut - Adds a touch of classic beauty.
  • Receiver: Durable alloy - Ensures long-lasting durability.

These specifications highlight the pistol's design, which makes it a fun and efficient shooting firearm. The balance of power, maneuverability, and visual appeal makes it attractive to both collectors and shooters.

Performance and Accuracy

Accuracy with the Henry Mare's Leg 22 WMR lever action pistol is achievable, although it requires some practice. As mentioned, the lack of a shoulder stock means you'll need to adapt your shooting technique. Hip-shooting, while iconic, may not yield the tightest groups. Bringing the pistol closer to your eye and using the sights in a more traditional manner will generally result in improved accuracy.

The .22 WMR ammunition contributes significantly to the pistol's range and effectiveness. With its higher velocity, the .22 WMR round experiences less bullet drop than the .22 LR, making it easier to hit targets at longer distances. The increased energy also translates to better stopping power, making it suitable for small game hunting or pest control. Of course, the range of the firearm will still depend on the shooter, but it will improve when using the right methods.

When testing the Mare's Leg for accuracy, it's essential to use a stable shooting position, such as a bench rest, to eliminate shooter error. This will allow you to assess the pistol's true potential. Different types of .22 WMR ammunition will also affect accuracy, so experimenting with various brands and bullet weights is recommended. Many shooters find that the Mare's Leg is capable of grouping shots within a few inches at 50 yards, which is quite respectable for a pistol without a shoulder stock. The performance also helps with making it an attractive pistol for many shooters.

Why Choose the Henry Mare's Leg?

So, why should you consider adding a Henry Mare's Leg 22 WMR lever action pistol to your collection? Well, first and foremost, it's a head-turner. Its unique design and iconic status make it a conversation starter at the range or in the gun store. Beyond its aesthetics, it offers a fun and engaging shooting experience. The lever action is smooth and satisfying, and the .22 WMR chambering provides a satisfying punch without excessive recoil.

Secondly, the Mare's Leg is a versatile firearm. It can be used for plinking, target shooting, small game hunting, and even self-defense (although other calibers might be more suitable for personal defense). The .22 WMR cartridge offers a good balance of power and affordability, making it an economical choice for regular shooting. The Henry Repeating Arms Company also offers a wide range of accessories and customization options for the Mare's Leg, allowing you to personalize it to your liking.

Thirdly, the Henry brand is known for its quality and craftsmanship. Their firearms are built to last, using high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. This ensures that your Mare's Leg will provide years of reliable service and enjoyment. The gun's build quality also contributes to the smooth functioning of the lever action and the overall shooting experience. The gun's ability to last a long time makes it a smart choice for many.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced perspective, let's weigh the pros and cons of the Henry Mare's Leg 22 WMR lever action pistol:

Pros:

  • Unique and eye-catching design - Guaranteed to turn heads.
  • Smooth and reliable lever-action mechanism - A joy to operate.
  • Powerful .22 WMR chambering - Offers increased range and stopping power.
  • Versatile for various shooting activities - Plinking, target shooting, small game hunting.
  • High-quality construction - Built to last.
  • Relatively affordable - Compared to other firearms.

Cons:

  • Requires practice to master - The lack of a shoulder stock necessitates adapting your shooting technique.
  • Not ideal for rapid follow-up shots - While the lever action is fast, it's not as quick as a semi-automatic.
  • Limited magazine capacity - Compared to some other .22 WMR firearms.
  • Hip-shooting may not be the most accurate method - Requires skill to achieve tight groups.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Henry Mare's Leg 22 WMR lever action pistol is a fantastic firearm that offers a unique blend of style, performance, and fun. It's a great choice for those looking for a conversation starter, a versatile plinking pistol, or a small game hunting companion. While it may require some practice to master, the smooth lever action, the powerful .22 WMR cartridge, and the overall build quality make it a worthwhile investment. The pistol's unique aesthetics and iconic design also add to its appeal.

Whether you're a seasoned shooter or a newcomer to the world of firearms, the Henry Mare's Leg is definitely worth considering. It's a testament to classic firearm design and a reminder that shooting can be both enjoyable and rewarding. So, if you're looking for a pistol that stands out from the crowd and delivers a satisfying shooting experience, the Mare's Leg might just be the perfect fit for you. Go out there, have fun, and enjoy the experience.