Henry X Model .45-70 Review

The X Model is Henry's accessory-ready lever gun, and the .45-70 is its big-game version. This page focuses on what the cartridge and the features mean in practice.

Start with the cartridge

You cannot review a .45-70 rifle without respecting the cartridge, because the single most important fact about owning one is not on the rifle at all. It is on the ammunition box.

The .45-70 Government has been in production for a very long time, and over that time it has been loaded to widely different strength levels. Light, traditional loads exist for old-style rifles. Modern hunting loads built for strong lever actions sit above those. Some specialty loads sit above that and are meant only for very strong single-shot or bolt-action rifles. A box that says ".45-70" does not tell you which category you are holding. Our deeper guide to .45-70 modern loads explains the tiers, and the network's .45-70 ammunition guide approaches matching loads to rifles.

What the X Model is

The Henry X Model in .45-70 is the accessory-ready, weather-minded member of Henry's lever lineup. Our X Model family guide describes the typical features: synthetic furniture, a threaded barrel, mounting points for lights and optics, high-visibility sights and a side loading gate alongside Henry's removable magazine tube. This particular listing is a .45-70 with a 4+1 capacity. Because feature sets differ by caliber and version, confirm each item on Henry's own page, especially the rail or attachment system and the sights.

Features and what they are for

The threaded barrel

A threaded muzzle takes a thread protector or a compatible muzzle device. What you do with that is your business and your jurisdiction's law. Some places restrict threaded barrels or certain muzzle devices on rifles, and suppressors are separately regulated everywhere in the United States. Our suppressor-ready lever gun overview covers the practical side. A muzzle brake or compensator is also a possibility, though in a hard-recoiling cartridge like this one, check that any device you add is rated for the rifle and the load.

Accessory mounting

A lever gun that accepts a light and an optic makes sense at the range where .45-70 is happiest: close to moderate distances in brush or timber. A simple red dot or low-power optic suits a short-range rifle better than a big variable scope. For help choosing one, the network's red dot sight guide is a good starting point. Mount whatever you choose according to the maker's instructions, and re-check fasteners after the first range session, because heavy recoil is hard on accessories.

Synthetic furniture

Synthetic stocks shrug off rain and scratches better than walnut. The trade-off is feel: some shooters prefer the warmth and weight of wood, and in a .45-70 a heavier, balanced rifle can help with recoil management. Choose the material that suits how you hunt.

Side gate plus removable tube

Per our Side Gate explainer, Henry's side-gate models let you top off without removing the tube, which stays available for unloading. Check the manual for the right procedure on your model.

Recoil and handling

A .45-70 pushes harder than a .357 or .30-30 lever gun. How hard depends mostly on the load you choose and on the weight and fit of the rifle. Light loads are pleasant and are a fine way to learn the rifle. Heavy modern hunting loads are noticeably more energetic. Start with milder ammunition, work up to the load you intend to hunt with, and wear good hearing and eye protection. If recoil becomes uncomfortable, stop and switch loads before developing a flinch.

Where the X Model fits

Our big-bore lever comparison and the tactical lever gun comparison put this rifle side by side with the Marlin and Smith & Wesson alternatives.

Reasons not to buy it

• You want a classic look. The synthetic, rail-equipped styling is deliberately modern. If you love brass and walnut, other Henry models deliver that.
• You hunt at longer distances. A box-magazine rifle such as the Long Ranger fits better, because it can use pointed bullets.
• You will mostly shoot cheap ammunition. .45-70 is a heavier-hitting, more expensive cartridge to shoot than rimfire or .38 Special, and recoil tires most shooters before a long session ends.

Before you order

1. Confirm the feature list on Henry's page, including the attachment system and the sights.
2. Read the manual's ammunition guidance and buy flat-nose or tube-safe loads only.
3. Check your state and local rules on legal cartridges for the game you hunt, on muzzle devices and on lights.
4. Plan for storage: a big-bore rifle deserves a locked, secure place when you are not using it.

Bottom line

The X Model in .45-70 is a purpose-built working rifle. It rewards shooters who match their ammunition to the rifle, accept the recoil and want to mount accessories without fuss. If those priorities do not describe you, there are friendlier or prettier Henrys. If they do, it is one of the more sensible modern lever guns on the market.

Editorial note: This is an independent editorial overview built from manufacturer specifications and publicly available information. We have not performed hands-on testing of the products discussed, and nothing here is a performance guarantee. Verify specifications, compatibility and legality for your own situation.

Affiliate disclosure: Some links on this page are affiliate links to Ammunition Depot. We may earn a commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you. Our editorial choices are not influenced by commissions. Check current price, stock and specifications directly with the retailer.