Henry Side-Gate Lever Action X Models

The serial number is located on the underside of the receiver. Record this number in this manual for future reference.

Your Henry X Model Side Gate Lever Action comes in the following calibers:

.45-70
.44 Mag/.44 Spl
.45 Colt
.357 Mag/.38 Spl

THE CALIBER OF YOUR NEW X MODEL Side-Gate LEVER ACTION IS INSCRIBED ON THE TOP OF THE RECEIVER AS WELL AS ON THE BARREL.

ALWAYS HAVE ADEQUATE VENTILATION IN THE AREA THAT YOU DISCHARGE A FIREARM. LEAD EXPOSURE CAN OCCUR FROM DISCHARGING FIREARMS IN POORLY VENTILATED AREAS, CLEANING FIREARMS OR HANDLING AMMUNITION.

Lead is a substance that has been known to cause birth defects, reproductive harm and other serious injury. Wash hands thoroughly after exposure.

The Henry Lever Action X Model Shotgun .410 Bore is chambered for use of 2 ½” shotgun shells only. Use of any other ammunition can cause excess pressure and possible serious injury. The gauge is inscribed on the barrel near the receiver.

– Factory .410 bore shotgun shells only.
– Chambered for 2 1/2″ shells only.
– Never attempt to load 3″ shells.
– Barrel has a smooth bore with no rifling and removable choke with invector style threads.
– Slugs are not recommended with the factory full choke.

Other factory chokes are available on Henry Pride at www.henrypride.com

ALWAYS USE THE CORRECT AMMUNITION FOR YOUR PARTICULAR FIREARM.

Henry Repeating Arms Firearms are designed to function with a variety of brands and types of factory-manufactured ammunition in the appropriate caliber, but not all ammunition produces the same result. Be sure the only ammunition you carry correctly matches the gauge or caliber you are shooting. Never use non-standard, reloaded, or “hand-loaded” ammunition which has not been subjected to internal ballistic pressure testing.

Henry RAC recommends that after you read and understand this manual, you go to the range and fire different ammunition which is appropriate to the caliber of your firearm. Once you find the ammunition which functions best, keep using it.

This firearm is designed with an ultra-safe patented Transfer Bar Safety Mechanism. This safety system prevents the gun from being fired under all circumstances, except when the hammer is fully cocked and the trigger is pulled. If the hammer is fully cocked and the trigger is pulled, the gun would fire as normal. However, if the hammer is fully cocked and is accidentally dislodged by some other means other than the trigger being pulled, the gun will not fire. If the hammer is in the process of being cocked and is accidentally released and dropped into the fired down position, before it is fully cocked, the gun will not fire. This shotgun can be safely carried fully loaded with the hammer in the fired down resting position. Please note that this Firearm does not have a half cock safety position nor a crossbolt safety. If you do not have a full understanding of how the safety system works, please call us immediately at 201-858-4400 and ask for technical assistance.

Before using your firearm for the first time, it should be cleaned. (See the cleaning instructions.) Your firearm was treated at the factory with either a preservative or oil to protect it against corrosion during shipping and storage. Preservative and oil should be wiped from the bore, chamber and exposed areas using a clean swab or patch before using the firearm.

Purchase cleaning supplies that are specifically designated for your type and caliber of firearm. Many suppliers offer these in kit form for your convenience. Follow the instructions provided with your cleaning supplies. Whenever your firearm has been exposed to sand, dust, extreme humidity, water or other adverse conditions, it should be cleaned and lubricated.

To Load the Chamber

The Side-Gate can be single loaded. With an empty magazine, place one cartridge of the correct caliber through the ejection port with the bullet pointed toward the muzzle. Close the bolt by rotating the lever fully rearward, locking the cartridge in the chamber.

WARNING! The firearm is now loaded with a cartridge in the chamber.

1. To Load the Magazine=

With the hammer down and the chamber empty, close the bolt by rotating the lever fully rearward. Insert a cartridge, bullet end first, by pushing the loading gate with the nose of the cartridge.

NOTE: Always check the cartridge for the correct designation before loading the firearm.

2. To Load the Magazine Tube

This firearm also uses a tubular feed brass inner magazine tube to hold cartridges. Open the action by rotating the lever down and forward until the bolt is fully rearward. Cartridges are loaded into the cutout in the blued outer magazine tube located underneath the barrel. Important – when loading the action must be closed with the hammer in the uncocked position (fired down position). Rotate the inner magazine tube to disengage. Pull the inner magazine tube out until the follower (the black part at the end of the inner magazine tube) clears the loading port in the outer magazine tube. You can either remove the brass inner magazine tube completely or keep it positioned in the outer magazine tube just past the loading port. With the muzzle pointed upward, insert the rimmed end of the cartridges into the loading port in the outer magazine tube and allow them to slide down towards the action. Do not exceed the capacity of the magazine. Next, push the inner magazine tube back down into position, and lock it into place. The rifle is now ready for operation.

The rifle will be ready to fire by moving the hammer to the cocked position and pulling the trigger. If you are not ready to fire, place your thumb on the hammer and disengage the hammer by pulling the trigger slightly rearward. Immediately release the trigger while still holding the hammer and bring the hammer into the fired down position.

If you do not fire all the cartridges in the magazine, be sure to put the hammer in the safe position until you are ready to shoot again.

UNTIL A VISUAL CHECK HAS BEEN MADE, YOU SHOULD ASSUME THAT A LIVE ROUND REMAINS IN THE CHAMBER.

To unload the magazine and chamber, the hammer should be resting in the fired down position. With the rifle pointing upward, withdraw the inner magazine tube. Tip the gun downward, allowing cartridges to slide out into a container. Replace the inner magazine tube. Open the action again, by cycling the lever, to make certain that there are no cartridges in the chamber. Cycle the action multiple times to insure that no live rounds remain in the chamber.

NOTE: The lever must be completely closed and then fully opened to insure proper feeding and ejecting of all the cartridges.

WARNING: A magazine plug which limits the magazine capacity to two (2) shells must be installed according to the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and some state laws. Check with your local Fish & Game Commission to determine whether a magazine plug is required in your circumstances.

The Magazine Tube Plug is used to limit the number of shot shells to a quantity of 2 inside the magazine tube of your firearm.

To use the Magazine Tube, first check the chamber and the magazine to make sure there are no shells in the firearm. Unscrew and remove the full capacity screw, then place the Magazine Plug in the end of the Inner Magazine Tube.

Replace and tighten the full capacity screw.

Do not use the inner magazine tube assembly without either the full cap screw or the magazine plug installed.

For full capacity loading, remove the magazine plug and re-install the full capacity screw.

This can be ordered at www.henrypride.com.

To install a scope mount, first check to see that the rifle is unloaded, then remove the filler screws on top of the receiver. Once the filler screws are removed, use the screws that come with your scope mount kit to attach the mount.

Your X Model is equipped with a Fully Adjustable Fiber Optic rear sight. The rear sight is adjustable for elevation (shooting high and low) and for windage (shooting left and right).

High or Low (Elevation Adjustment)

In order to shoot higher, you need to raise the rear sight. In order to shoot lower, you need to lower the rear sight. In order to raise or lower the rear sight, you need to adjust the set screw closest to the Fiber Optic Tubes. Turning the screw clockwise raises and turning counterclockwise lowers.

Left or Right (Windage Adjustment)

To adjust your for windage (left/right), we suggest that you move the rear sight to the left or right as desired. The rear sight sits in a dovetail slot cutout in the barrel. Current models will have a screw on the front of the rear sight assembly. This screw must first be loosened, prior to attempting adjustment. To adjust your rifle for windage use a plastic mallet, or a hammer and a brass wedge to tap it in the direction you want your shots to hit.

For example: if you are shooting to the left, you need to tap the sight over to the right to correct the point of impact. Conversely, if you are shooting to the right then you will need to tap the rear sight over to the left.
Your Henry X Model Shotgun is equipped with a Fiber Optic Bead Front Sight.

1. Start the new choke tube into the muzzle with the threaded end entering the barrel first and the 4 notches pointing away from the barrel.

2. Turn clockwise, starting threads by hand.

3. Use supplied tool to tighten.

Flush fitting choke tubes fit flush with the barrel when properly installed. Do not use excessive force when installing. Choke tube tightness should be checked periodically to avoid damage to the choke, firearm, and to prevent injury to you or those around you.

1. To change or remove the choke tubes, use the supplied tool.

1. To change or remove the choke tubes, use the supplied tool.

4. Turn clockwise, starting threads by hand, then use supplied tool to fully tighten.

2. Align stepped end of the tool with the notches in the choke tube as shown above. Turn counter-clockwise.

3. Start new choke tube into the muzzle with the threaded end entering the barrel first and the 4 notches pointing away from the barrel.

4. Turn clockwise, starting threads by hand, then use supplied tool to fully tighten.

4. Turn clockwise, starting threads by hand, then use supplied tool to fully tighten.

NEVER FIRE YOUR SHOTGUN WITHOUT A CHOKE IN PLACE. FIRING WITHOUT A CHOKE CAN DAMAGE THE THREADS FOR THE CHOKE.

Inspect choke tubes periodically to insure they are properly installed and in good condition. Pay special attention to the threaded end of the choke tube to be certain it is not deformed or dented. Never fire this firearm without a choke tube properly installed. Failure to do so will damage the precision threads on the inside of the barrel. Firing this firearm with loose choke tubes may lead to damage to the choke tube and barrel, as well as serious personal injury to you or those around you.

NEVER USE YOUR FIREARM IF IT FAILS TO FUNCTION PROPERLY, AND NEVER FORCE A JAMMED ACTION. Forcing the action could make the round explode, causing serious injury, possible death, or severe damage to your firearm or other property.

FAILURE TO FIRE. A misfire occurs when the firing pin strikes the primer and it does not fire. IF THE FIREARM FAILS TO FIRE DO NOT PUT IT DOWN OR OPEN THE ACTION. ALWAYS HOLD THE FIREARM, KEEPING IT POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION AND WAIT 30 SECONDS. IF A HANGFIRE (SLOW IGNITION) HAS OCCURRED, THE ROUND WILL FIRE WITHIN 30 SECONDS.

If the round does not fire, remove the ammunition, eject the round and examine the shell. If the firing pin indent on the primer is light or non-existent, have the firearm examined by a competent gunsmith before firing again. If the firing pin indent on the rim appears normal (in comparison with similar previously fired rounds) assume you have faulty ammunition. Segregate the misfired round from other live ammunition and empty cases, reload, and carry on firing.

FAILURE TO EXTRACT (FTE). This is when the firearm discharges the round and fails to extract the spent round from the chamber. This could happen because of a bad extractor or bad/damaged casings.

FAILURE TO FEED (FTF). This is simply when the firearm fails to feed another round into the chamber. Put the lever in the open position and clear the ejection port.

NOTE: The ejection port should face the ground; this will allow the round to easily fall out (gravity is your friend here). This will work for both left and right handed shooters.

WARNING: BEFORE PERFORMING CLEANING PROCEDURES, MAKE SURE THE HAMMER IS IN THE FIRED-DOWN POSITION, WHICH ALLOWS YOUR SAFETY TO FUNCTION AS DESIGNED. OPEN THE ACTION AND MAKE CERTAIN YOUR FIREARM IS COMPLETELY UNLOADED. KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

KEEP ALL AMMUNITION AWAY FROM THE CLEANING AREA. NEVER TEST THE MECHANICAL FUNCTION OF YOUR RIFLE WITH LIVE AMMUNITION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

NOTICE – RIFLE! It is very important that the chambers of your rifle be cleaned thoroughly and promptly after shooting. Do not leave discharged (empty) cartridges in the chambers for any length of time, as the chemical composition of many cartridges contain moisture which can “sweat” onto the chambers’ surfaces, and possibly cause corrosion and rust.

NOTICE – SHOTGUN! It is very important that the chambers of your shotgun be cleaned thoroughly and promptly after shooting plastic shotshells. Do not leave discharged (empty) shells in the chambers for any length of time, as the chemical composition of many plastic shells contain moisture which can “sweat” out of the shell and onto the chambers’ surfaces, and possibly cause corrosion and rust.

The precision threads on your choke tube should be kept clean and lightly oiled at all times. During cleaning of the barrel, be certain a choke tube is properly installed. This will avoid residue build-up on threads.

DO NOT USE AN AGGRESSIVE SOLVENT ON THE RECEIVER COVER. WE SUGGEST THAT YOU USE BIRCHWOOD CASEY GUN SHEATH OR A MILD SOLVENT SUCH AS HOPPE’S NO. 9, KLEENBORE OR BREAKFREE.

Regular cleaning is important in order for your gun to operate correctly and safely. Taking proper care of it will also maintain its value and extend its life. Your gun should be cleaned every time it is used.

In order to clean it, we suggest that you first open the action by cycling the lever down/forward. Using a brand name cleaning kit, run the cleaning rod down the bore from the breech towards the muzzle. Clean the bolt and oil it before replacing. To reassemble, simply do the reverse.

When storing your firearm, do not encase it in anything that will attract or hold moisture, for example, leather or heavy cloth. Also, do not store firearms with a plug inserted in the barrel because this can be a contributing factor to moisture accumulation.

If your firearm is to be stored for an extended period, the bore, chamber and internal surfaces should be oiled with a high-quality lubricating oil or preservative intended for firearms. The external parts; receiver, bolt and barrel should be coated with an anti-rust oil.

Before using your firearm again, be sure to clean it. Every time you clean your firearm, check it for signs of wear. If wear is noted, do not use the firearm, have it checked by a qualified gunsmith.

Make sure your firearm is in good mechanical condition before firing it. Periodically have your firearm checked for signs of erosion, cracking, or wear by the factory or a factory certified gunsmith.

NEVER LOCK A LOADED FIREARM AND NEVER LOAD A LOCKED FIREARM!

ALWAYS CHECK TO MAKE SURE YOUR FIREARM IS NOT LOADED BEFORE CLEANING, STORING, TRANSPORTING IT, LAYING IT DOWN, OR HANDING IT TO ANOTHER PERSON so that it cannot be fired when it is unsafe to do so.

ALWAYS KEEP AND STORE YOUR FIREARM AND AMMUNITION IN SEPARATE, LOCKED LOCATIONS, OUT OF REACH AND SIGHT OF CHILDREN AND UNTRAINED PERSONS. Safe and secure storage of your firearm and ammunition are your responsibility.

NEVER LEAVE THE KEY TO THE LOCK FOR YOUR FIREARM WITH THE STORED FIREARM!

NEVER ASSUME THAT A “HIDING” PLACE IS A SECURE STORAGE METHOD.  Others may be aware of your storage location or come upon it by chance. It is your personal responsibility to use common sense when storing your firearm and ammunition and to always make sure they are not accessible to children or other unauthorized persons.

NOTE: Do not store your firearm in an air-tight container, and do not seal or attempt to seal the barrel to exclude dust, as the internal steel surface is more likely to rust or corrode by doing this.

BEWARE OF BARREL OBSTRUCTIONS. Be sure the barrel is clear of obstructions before shooting. Mud, water, snow or other objects may inadvertently lodge in the barrel bore. A small obstruction can cause a dangerous increase in pressure and may damage your firearm and cause injury to yourself and others.

BEFORE CHECKING FOR A BARREL OBSTRUCTION, BE CERTAIN YOUR FIREARM IS COMPLETELY UNLOADED. After assuring yourself that the firearm is completely unloaded, open the action and look through the barrel to be sure it is clear of obstructions. If an obstruction is seen, no matter how small it may be, clean the bore with a cleaning cord or a patch as described in the CLEANING section of this owner’s manual.

BE SURE ALL ACCESSORIES, SUCH AS SLINGS, SCOPES AND OTHER ACCESSORIES ARE COMPATIBLE WITH YOUR PARTICULAR FIREARM AND THAT THE ACCESSORIES DO NOT INTERFERE WITH ITS SAFE OPERATION.

It is your responsibility to understand and follow all of the instructions in the safety manual that accompanied your firearm, as well as those which may be supplied with your ammunition and any accessory.

NEVER DISASSEMBLE YOUR FIREARM BEYOND THE FIELD STRIPPING PROCEDURE OUTLINED IN THIS MANUAL. Improper disassembly or reassembly of your firearm may be dangerous and can lead to serious injury or death.

NEVER MANIPULATE, ADJUST OR CHANGE ANY OF THE INTERNAL COMPONENTS OF YOUR FIREARM UNLESS SPECIFICALLY INSTRUCTED TO DO SO IN THIS MANUAL.  Improper manipulation of any other internal component may affect the safety and reliability of your firearm and may cause serious injury or death.

NEVER ALLOW ANY ALTERATION OR REPLACEMENT OF PARTS IN YOUR FIREARM UNLESS PERFORMED BY A QUALIFIED GUNSMITH USING AUTHORIZED PARTS. If you do otherwise, improper functioning of your firearm may occur and serious injury or death and damage to property may result.