Description
Henry Bear’s Leg Pistol
Overview
The Henry Bear’s Leg Pistol represents a unique convergence of historical lever-action design and modern pistol utility. Manufactured by Henry Repeating Arms, this firearm is chambered in four potent calibers: .357 Magnum/.38 Spl, .44 Magnum/.44 Spl, .30-30 Win., and .45-70 Gov’t. Each variant delivers the robust performance expected from a full-sized rifle cartridge in a compact, legally classified pistol frame. The Bear’s Leg Pistol is built on a solid-steel receiver with a 12-inch octagonal barrel, featuring a full-length magazine tube and a brass or blued finish depending on the specific model. This is not a novelty item; it is a functional, hunting-capable firearm designed for shooters who require the power of a lever gun in a more portable package. The overall length and weight are balanced to reduce muzzle rise while maintaining the characteristic smooth cycling action of Henry rifles.
Features & Specs
The Henry Bear’s Leg Pistol is constructed with precision-machined components and a high-grade American walnut stock. The receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounting, though the factory-installed adjustable rear sight and brass bead front sight provide immediate accuracy out of the box. The action is a side-loading magazine system, allowing for safe loading without breaking the line of sight. Below are the key technical specifications:
- Action Type: Lever-action, side-gate loading, with a 4-round tubular magazine capacity (5 rounds with .38 Spl or .44 Spl).
- Barrel: 12-inch octagonal barrel, rifled with a 1:20 twist rate for .357 Mag/.38 Spl, 1:38 for .44 Mag/.44 Spl, 1:10 for .30-30 Win., and 1:20 for .45-70 Gov’t.
- Safety: Transfer bar safety mechanism; no manual external safety, consistent with traditional lever-action design.
- Weight: Approximately 6.5 to 7.0 pounds depending on caliber and barrel profile.
- Overall Length: 21.5 inches, with a 12-inch length of pull.
Who It’s For
The Henry Bear’s Leg Pistol is intended for experienced shooters who require a specialized tool for hunting in thick brush, backpacking in bear country, or for use as a trail defense firearm. Its .44 Magnum and .45-70 Gov’t chamberings are particularly suited for large game such as wild boar or black bear, while the .357 Magnum variant offers reduced recoil for smaller shooters or those seeking a plinking pistol with significant energy. This firearm is also appropriate for historical reenactors and collectors who appreciate the lineage of the “Buntline” style pistol, though it is engineered for practical field use rather than display. It is not recommended for beginners due to the substantial recoil of magnum loads and the specialized manual of arms required for lever-action pistols. The Bear’s Leg Pistol fills a niche for shooters who want the stopping power of a rifle in a legally transferable pistol format.
- Hunters seeking a compact backup firearm for dangerous game.
- Outdoorsmen needing a high-capacity, fast-cycling pistol for self-defense in remote areas.
- Collectors of unique Henry Repeating Arms lever-action pistols.
Shipping & FFL
This Henry Bear’s Leg Pistol is classified as a firearm under the National Firearms Act (NFA) as a pistol, not as a short-barreled rifle. It can be shipped directly to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder in your state. We only ship to licensed FFL dealers who accept transfers. A physical copy of the dealer’s FFL must be on file prior to shipment. Some states and localities may have additional restrictions on barrel length, magazine capacity, or pistol ownership. It is your responsibility to verify local laws before ordering. We do not ship to P.O. boxes; a physical street address is required for delivery. All sales are final once the firearm leaves our facility. Your FFL dealer will conduct the NICS background check at the time of transfer. If you are purchasing this firearm, please ensure your FFL dealer is aware of the transfer prior to placing your order.
- Must ship to a valid FFL dealer; no direct-to-consumer shipments.
- Background check required at transfer per federal law.
- Check state and local regulations regarding pistol barrel length and caliber restrictions.

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