Henry Long Ranger: Problems and Solutions, Browning BLR vs. Henry Long Ranger, .308 Accuracy

Table of Contents

Henry Long Ranger Problems and Solutions

Users provide various suggestions and opinions. Some express skepticism about the accuracy of lever-action rifles in general, while others recommend trying different types of ammunition or reaching out to Henry's customer service for assistance. One user shares their positive experience with Henry customer service, while another suggests exploring heavy bullets to test the rifle's performance.

Overall, the user expresses disappointment in the rifle's performance and seeks advice from the community for potential solutions or recommendations.

Cartridge Loading Jams

• Issue: Users experience cartridge loading jams due to hesitation or improper lever action.
• Fix: Operate the lever briskly and consistently. If a jam occurs, use pliers or tools to remove the cartridge. Practice lever action to prevent future jams.

Failure to Eject

• Issue: Failure to eject happens when the lever action is too slow, leading to incomplete cartridge ejection.
• Fix: Ensure the magazine is seated properly, angle the rifle for gravity assistance, and use the lever action to eject the spent cartridge. If jammed, carefully remove it with pliers, then clean the chamber and barrel.

Headspace Issues

• Issue: Some users report headspace problems affecting cartridge feeding and firing.
• Fix: Verify proper alignment of bullet and case with the center of the bore. Use manufactured ammo to reduce headspace issues. Consider replacing the bolt with a coated variety to minimize wear and tear.

Inconsistent or Large Shot Groups

• Issue: Users observe inconsistent or larger-than-expected shot groups, impacting accuracy.
• Fix: Be patient between shots to prevent barrel heating. Calibrate the rifle and scope properly. Practice smooth trigger pulls and consistent lever action. If using a new scope, be aware that the rifle may have been modified for a specific optic.

For any persistent issues, contacting Henry's customer service or a knowledgeable gunsmith is recommended. Additionally, verifying the rifle's history and understanding its modifications can provide insights into addressing specific accuracy concerns.

Browning BLR vs. Henry Long Ranger

The Browning BLR Lightweight and Henry Long Ranger are both lever-action rifles designed for modern high-intensity cartridges, such as the .308 Winchester. Here's a summarized comparison of the two:

Similarities

1. Action: Both rifles feature a geared lever action that operates a bolt with a rotating, multi-lug head.
2. Strength: The lever action design provides the strength and pressure handling capabilities of a bolt-action rifle.
3. Materials: Both rifles have lightweight aluminum alloy receivers to reduce overall weight.
4. Magazine: They both use detachable box magazines with a capacity of four rounds.
5. Safety: Neither rifle has a separate manual safety, relying on external hammer design for safe carry.

Differences

Browning BLR Lightweight:

1. Country of Origin: Manufactured in Japan by Miroku, Browning's long-time partner.
2. Barrel Length: Comes with a 20" barrel in short action calibers, available in various calibers including long action and stainless options.
3. Trigger: Aluminum trigger with a gold finish, attached to and moving with the lever. It has a spongy, heavier feel.
4. Safety System: Requires the shooter to draw the hammer back to a "quarter cock" position for safety.

Henry Long Ranger:

1. Country of Origin: Made in the USA.
2. Barrel Length: Features a 20" barrel for all calibers.
3. Trigger: Steel trigger with a blued finish, offering a smoother and lighter pull than the BLR.
4. Safety System: Uses an automatic transfer bar in the hammer face for safety. The hammer has a longer travel and requires less effort to cock.
5. Stock Grade: Utilizes a higher grade of black walnut for the stock compared to the BLR's Grade 1 walnut.

Additional Points:

1. Weight: The Long Ranger is noticeably heavier, providing a moderate recoil reduction but making it more tiring to carry.
2. Receiver Design: The Browning's detachable magazine protrudes below the line of the receiver, while the Henry's magazine does not.
3. Aesthetics: Browning has a high-gloss finish for a more traditional, deluxe appearance, while Henry has an understated matte receiver and satin stock finish.
4. Stock Design: Henry's stock has a slimmer fore end and smaller grip circumference, providing a sleeker feel. Browning's stock is more traditional with a pistol grip and Schnable fore end.

Conclusion: Both rifles are considered very good, with the choice depending on individual preferences and priorities. The devil is in the details, and factors such as trigger preference, safety system, weight, and aesthetics will play a role in determining which rifle is better suited for an individual's needs. Both rifles offer fast repeat shots and comfortable carrying, making them suitable for hunting purposes.

Henry Long Ranger .308 Accuracy

The accuracy of the Henry Long Ranger chambered in .308 Win has been a focal point of evaluation during testing. The rifle's accuracy is influenced by several factors, and the reviewer provides insights into their experiences.

Firstly, the lever-action design and rotary-fed magazine, while offering a unique and traditional feel, may present challenges in maintaining consistent accuracy, especially during rapid and repetitive shooting. The reviewer notes that the barrel heats up quickly, impacting shot groups. The need for spacing out shot strings and using a solid shooting rest to mitigate the trigger's effect on accuracy emphasizes the importance of proper handling techniques for optimal results.

The trigger itself is identified as a significant factor affecting accuracy. The combination of moderate creep and stacking before the break can result in shots drifting if the shooter fails to execute a smooth and consistent trigger pull. Despite the average trigger pull weight of 3.5 pounds, the practical effects of trigger creep and stacking on accuracy highlight the importance of addressing this aspect for improved performance.

During ammunition testing, the reviewer evaluated the rifle's accuracy using various brands of .308 Win ammunition. The Federal Fusion MSR rounds demonstrated the best accuracy, with a three-shot group measuring .773 inches. The SIG Sauer Elite Performance and Winchester RazorBoar XT also delivered respectable accuracy, contributing to an overall assessment of the rifle's performance with different loads.

Henry Long Ranger Disassembly