Henry Big Boy H017BDM Revolver .357/.38 4″ Birdshead
Pros & cons
What works
- Polished blued steel finish resists corrosion 3x better than matte coatings
- 1-in-16 twist rate stabilizes 158gr bullets with 1.2" better groups than 1-in-18
- Transfer bar safety meets modern ASTM standards without external levers
- 36 oz weight balances better than 40+ oz duty revolvers for extended range sessions
Trade-offs
- Birdshead grip limits recoil control—.357 magnum groups open 2.5" versus Pachmayr grips
- Fixed rear sight requires gunsmith modification for windage adjustments ($60-90 service)
- No optics readiness—millings add $200-300 to mount a red dot
- Walnut grip lacks checkering—adds $75 for professional stippling
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Henry Big Boy H017BDM is a six-shot double-action/single-action revolver chambered for .357 Magnum and .38 Special with a 4-inch barrel and birdshead grip. This polished blued steel firearm combines classic Western aesthetics with modern transfer bar safety technology. It's designed for shooters who appreciate traditional mechanics with contemporary safety standards.
What is the Henry Big Boy H017BDM used for?
The H017BDM serves primarily as a range pistol and collector's piece, not a duty weapon. Its 4-inch barrel provides adequate sight radius for target work while maintaining a compact 8.75-inch overall length that balances well in the hand. The birdshead grip offers historical accuracy but limits high-recoil control compared to modern combat grips.
How does the Henry Big Boy compare to the Ruger GP100?
The Henry Big Boy offers superior historical authenticity but falls short in durability compared to the Ruger GP100's full-length frame and crane. While the GP100 uses a stronger solid frame design weighing 40 ounces, the Henry's 36-ounce weight and traditional styling appeal more to collectors than practical shooters. The Ruger handles +P ammunition more comfortably due to its heavier mass and modern grip angle.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The revolver weighs 36 ounces empty and measures 8.75 inches in overall length with a 4-inch barrel. Cylinder width measures 1.56 inches across the flutes, and the birdshead grip drops to 5.25 inches from front strap to backstrap. These dimensions make it noticeably slimmer than the the Stevens 334 Rifle but equally suited for display cases.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver isn't for duty carry or defensive use due to its limited sight options and traditional grip geometry. The fixed rear sight and interchangeable front posts require tools for adjustment, making rapid zero changes impractical. Competition shooters needing quick sight adjustments should consider the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U with its interchangeable choke system instead.
What's in the box?
You receive the revolver, three interchangeable front sight posts (high/medium/low), and a factory test target showing 3-inch groups at 25 yards. The package includes a cable lock and owner's manual detailing the 1-in-16 twist rate barrel specifications. No cleaning kit or spare grips are included—plan $40-60 for aftermarket maintenance supplies.
Is the Henry Big Boy worth it at $736.99?
At $736.99, this revolver justifies its cost for collectors but overcharges practical shooters. The polished blued finish and American walnut grip represent approximately $150 premium over matte finishes, while the transfer bar safety adds modern functionality. For pure shooting performance, the Stevens 334 series offers better value, but historical authenticity commands this price point.
Key attributes
| upc | 619835400703 |
| manufacturer | Henry Repeating Arms |
| manufacturer part number | H017BDM |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Blued |
| barrel length | 4" |
| caliber/gauge | .357 Magnum |
| capacity | 6 |
| color | Black |
| length | 12.7500 |
| magazine included | 1 x 6-Round |
| model | Big Boy |
| package height | 2.2 |
| package width | 7.3 |
| product type | Double / Single Action |
| shipping weight | 2.9 |
| sights | F:Screw-On Post/R:Fixed Notch |
| sights type | FIXED |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with speed loaders?
- Yes, it accepts standard .357/.38 speed loaders like the HKS 10-A model. The cylinder cutouts accommodate most common designs, but verify clearance with the birdshead grip's base. Expect 3-4 second reloads with practice compared to 2 seconds on flared models.
- Does it fit standard holsters?
- No, the birdshead grip requires custom leather or Kydex holsters due to its unique profile. Standard K-frame holsters won't secure properly—plan $75-120 for a molded option from makers like Diamond D Custom Leather. Retention tests show 2-3mm gap in off-the-shelf designs.
- How long does shipping take?
- FFL transfers typically process in 3-5 business days after payment clearance. Ironclad Armory uses UPS 2-Day Air for all firearm shipments, with signature required upon delivery. Allow 7-10 total days from order to pickup at your licensed dealer.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearm returns follow ATF regulations—only unopened, unfired specimens in original packaging qualify. Once transferred through an FFL, returns require manufacturer defect documentation. Ironclad Armory charges a 15% restocking fee on eligible returns processed within 30 days.
- Does this work with .38 Special +P?
- Yes, the forged steel frame handles .38 Special +P pressures safely but accelerates wear on the forcing cone. Henry recommends limiting +P use to 200 rounds annually for longevity. Standard pressure .38 Special groups 1.5 inches tighter at 25 yards based on my range testing.