New BBS .357 Carbine impressions and range trip

[robert1408]

Got it yesterday, shot it today. It arrived properly packaged in perfect condition. No scratches or tool marks. Nice looking wood that fits well and is tight. Action is very smooth. Trigger is heavy with only the slightest creep, but it's so crisp the weight is not a problem. The bolt is nicely flush when closed.

Took it to an indoor range today mainly to check function and adjust the factory sight. I can't focus well on a front rifle sight these days but did my best on a few groups. Fortunately, the sights were good for windage and only needed some elevation adjustment to zero at 25 yards, the limit of the range. The four groups were from 3/4" to 1 3/4" (which included a called pulled shot). Ammo was four 357 loads i had sitting around. The 158 XTP and 180 XTP were the best. All ammo cycled 100%, including 38 spc.

I got a scope rail from Henry's web site and I have an extra Burris FF3 red dot and a Bushnell Banner 1.5-4.5 scope. An optic will definitely help in my case! I'm planning to use a scope for working up some loads and then try the red dot. This rifle will be used as a fun plinker mostly at 25-50 yards. I think this rifle will be more than accurate enough for its planned use on steel, clays on a berm and the occasional stray kitchen ware, old car parts and water jugs.

I was impressed with the mild recoil and noise. Even fairly hot 180gr loads were light recoiling. The muzzle blast sounded more like a 22 rimfire amped up. Quiet and mild this carbine definitely is. This makes it ideal for indoor range use. It seems quieter than a 9mm pistol. Overall very pleased with this Henry.

[Cofisher]

Good initial review Robert. Thanks. I have the same rifle and enjoy it very much. I have yet to start loading any of my own ammo. It sounds like you have got a good running start.

[JEBar]

great to hear your Carbine arrived and is in really good condition .... based on firing our BBS 357, I agree with all of your positive comments .... please take a look at our How Many ? thread (link below) and add your Henry to our community total

http://henryrifleforums.com/viewtopic.p ... 667#p46667