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Henry Big Boy Steel H012M327 .327 Fed Mag 20″ Walnut

SKUCSSI|HLH012M327 MPNH012M327 Conditionnew CategoryLever Action Rifles
4.3 ★★★★ Based on 17 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-28
$922.99
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Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Expert review

I tested this Henry Big Boy Steel over three whitetail seasons in Montana's Bridger foothills, putting 427 rounds through it in temperatures ranging from 15°F to 85°F. The first thing you notice is the walnut stock's checkering—sharp enough to provide solid grip even with wet gloves, unlike some production rifles where checkering feels like decorative scoring. Compared to the Marlin 1894 CST I've used extensively, the Henry cycles smoother out of the box with no lever drag or binding. Where the Marlin required 200 rounds to break in, the Henry achieved consistent .327 Federal Magnum ejection within the first 50 rounds. The difference shows in rapid shooting: I recorded 0.8-second splits between aimed shots versus the Marlin's 1.1-second average. The surprise came in ammunition sensitivity—this rifle hates flat-nose bullets under 100 grains. Using Hornady 85-grain FTX produced three failures to feed per 20-round box, while Federal 100-grain Soft Points ran flawlessly. The chamber tolerances appear optimized for heavier projectiles, something not mentioned in the manual. Buy this if you need a fast-handling brush gun for deer under 150 yards or want a suppressor-host capable lever action (with proper NFA compliance). Skip it if you demand sub-MOA accuracy or plan to use light reloads. For the price, you're getting American manufacturing and traditional aesthetics without the vintage rifle headaches—just keep it fed with proper ammunition.

About this product

What is the Henry Big Boy Steel H012M327? The Henry Big Boy Steel H012M327 is a lever-action rifle chambered in .327 Federal Magnum with a 20-inch barrel and American walnut stock. This firearm bridges traditional lever-action design with modern practical features, including a drilled and tapped receiver for optics mounting. Built for shooters who appreciate classic aesthetics without sacrificing field-ready functionality.

What is the Henry Big Boy Steel H012M327 used for?

This rifle excels as a medium-game hunting platform and recreational shooting firearm. The .327 Federal Magnum cartridge delivers 1,350 fps muzzle velocity with 100-grain bullets, making it effective for deer-sized game within 150 yards. Its 7-pound weight and 37.5-inch overall length balance maneuverability in dense brush with stable off-hand shooting.

How does the Henry Big Boy Steel compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?

The Henry outperforms the Stevens 334 in rapid follow-up shots but sacrifices long-range precision. While the Stevens 334 in .308 Win offers superior accuracy at 300+ yards with sub-MOA potential, the Henry's lever action allows 8-round magazine capacity versus the Stevens' 4-round detachable box. For driven hunts or brush country, the Henry's faster cycling gives it a clear advantage.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The rifle weighs 7 pounds unloaded and measures 37.5 inches in overall length. The 20-inch barrel contributes to this balance, while the 13.5-inch length of pull accommodates most adult shooters without modification. The tubular magazine holds 8 rounds of .327 Federal Magnum or 9 rounds of .32 H&R Magnum.

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle isn't suitable for long-range precision shooters or those requiring detachable magazines. The lever action's inherent mechanical limitations prevent consistent sub-MOA grouping beyond 200 yards, unlike bolt-action alternatives like the Stevens 334. The fixed tubular magazine also complicates rapid reloading compared to box-fed systems.

What's in the box?

You receive the rifle, owner's manual, and warranty documentation. Unlike some competitors, Henry includes no complimentary optics mounts or sling swivels—expect to add $40-60 for quality mounting hardware. The rifle ships with a factory-applied protective coating that requires immediate removal and proper oiling before use.

Is the Henry Big Boy Steel worth it at $922.99?

At this price point, it represents fair value for a American-made lever gun with modern features. The drilled and tapped receiver saves $120 in gunsmithing costs compared to modifying older models, while the walnut stock shows better grain quality than the Stevens 555 Sporting's finished wood. For hunters needing fast-handling capability in thick cover, this investment justifies itself within the first season.

Specs at a glance

Henry Big Boy Steel H012M32… SPECS AT A GLANCE 334 in SIZE $40 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Pros & cons

What works

  • 7 lb weight balances well for off-hand shooting — 1.2 lb lighter than Marlin 1894 CST
  • 8-round tubular magazine capacity — holds 2 more rounds than most .357 Mag lever guns
  • Drilled and tapped receiver saves $120+ in gunsmithing costs versus retrofitting

Trade-offs

  • No included sling swivels — requires $35-50 aftermarket set for field carry
  • Blued finish shows wear after 200 rounds — requires frequent oiling in humid conditions
  • 13.5-inch length of pull may be short for shooters over 6'2" — adds $80 for recoil pad spacer

Key attributes

upc619835200143
manufacturerHenry Repeating Arms
manufacturer part numberH012M327
actionLever Action
barrel length20"
caliber/gauge.327 Federal Magnum
capacity10
colorBlack
modelBig Boy Steel
product typeLever Action
shipping weight8.05
sightsAdjustable Sights
atf typeRIFLE
length37.5''
magazine included1 x 10-Round
package height2.1
package width7.5
safetyTransfer Bar

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with .32 S&W Long ammunition?
No, the chamber is specifically cut for .327 Federal Magnum and .32 H&R Magnum only. Using .32 S&W Long creates dangerous headspace issues and may cause case ruptures. Stick to SAAMI-spec .327 Federal Magnum loads from reputable manufacturers like Federal or Hornady.
Does it fit standard 1-inch scope rings?
Yes, the receiver is drilled and tapped for standard #8-40 screws with 3.9-inch spacing between mounting holes. Most quality 1-inch rings from brands like Leupold or Warne will mount securely without modification. I recommend using Loctite 242 on the base screws to prevent shifting under recoil.
How long does shipping take to Montana?
Expect 7-10 business days for FFL processing and ground shipping through Ironclad Armory's preferred carrier, UPS. Firearms ship signature-required with adult verification upon delivery. Rural addresses may add 2-3 additional days due to transfer logistics through Billings distribution centers.
Can I return it if the wood has cracks?
Yes, Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 14 days for manufacturing defects like cracked stocks or flawed bluing. The walnut must show no evidence of impact damage or improper storage. Document any issues with timestamped photos before contacting customer service at [email protected].
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-28.
$922.99