Henry 45-70 Problems [& How To Fix Them!]

Whether you are a new kid on the block or a well-seasoned veteran, you have heard of the legendary 45-70 from Henry. The 45-70 also known as Govt’, is a lever-action rifle commonly used for game hunting throughout the North American region.

I know a lot of you guys probably tested the weapons at least once already. If you haven’t, go ahead, find a trial somehow. Anyway, you and I both know the gun’s great. But what about the ugly side? Of course, it can’t be all rainbow and sunshine, can it?

Unfortunately, it cannot. The Henry 45-70 problems are not unheard of. While some are easily fixable and some are not even inconvenient, I feel like you as a potential buyer should still know of them. And if you are facing some problems with your Henry, I hope you find the solution in here.

Without further ado, let’s start.

Exploring Henry 45-70 Problems: Troubleshooting Guide and Solutions

When it comes to firearms, the Henry 45-70 is a popular choice among enthusiasts and hunters alike. With its reliable performance and classic design, this lever-action rifle has gained a significant following. However, like any mechanical device, the Henry 45-70 may encounter problems that can hinder its performance. In this article, we will explore common issues that shooters may face with their Henry 45-70 and provide troubleshooting solutions to help you overcome them.

1. Failure to Feed

One of the most frustrating problems shooters may experience with the Henry 45-70 is a failure to feed properly. This can occur due to several reasons, including:

Ammo-related issues:

• Improperly sized or deformed rounds
• Incorrectly seated bullets

Solutions:

• Ensure you are using the correct caliber and type of ammunition specified by the manufacturer.
• Inspect each round before loading it into the rifle. Discard any rounds with deformities or signs of damage.
• Pay attention to how you seat the bullets and ensure they are properly aligned.
• Ensure consistent, firm pressure when loading the magazine tube.

2. Extraction Problems

Another issue that may arise with the Henry 45-70 is extraction problems. This refers to difficulties in removing spent casings from the chamber after firing. Common causes of extraction problems include:

Excessive carbon buildup:

• Inadequate firearm maintenance leads to carbon buildup in the chamber and on the extractor.

Weak extractor tension:

• Over time, the extractor spring may weaken, resulting in insufficient tension to grip and extract spent casings effectively.

Solutions:

• Maintain regular cleaning and maintenance of your Henry 45-70, paying particular attention to the chamber area. Use a cleaning brush and solvent to remove carbon buildup.
• Check the extractor spring regularly and replace it if necessary. This simple fix can greatly improve the rifle’s extraction performance.

3. Firing Pin Issues

Problems with the firing pin can also occur in the Henry 45-70. These can lead to misfires or light strikes, where the firing pin fails to hit the primer with enough force to ignite the cartridge. Typical causes of firing pin issues include:

Excessive dirt or debris:

• Dust, dirt, or debris may accumulate around the firing pin area, hindering its movement or impacting its strike.

Worn or damaged firing pin:

• Over time, the firing pin can wear down or become damaged, resulting in inconsistent strikes.

Solutions:

• Regularly clean the firing pin area to prevent the accumulation of dirt or debris. Use a cleaning solvent and a soft brush to gently remove any residues.
• Inspect the firing pin for signs of wear or damage. If necessary, consult a gunsmith to replace the firing pin and ensure reliable and consistent ignition.

4. Accuracy Issues

While the Henry 45-70 is known for its accuracy, there have been incidents where shooters encountered accuracy problems. These issues can stem from various factors, including:

Improper sight alignment:

• Shooting with misaligned sights can greatly impact accuracy.

Inconsistent ammunition:

• Using different types or brands of ammunition can produce varying results in terms of accuracy.

Solutions:

• Familiarize yourself with the proper sight alignment techniques for your Henry 45-70. Seek guidance from experienced shooters or consult the rifle’s manual for detailed instructions.
• Stick to a specific type and brand of ammunition that has been proven to deliver consistent results. Experimenting with various loads can result in inconsistent accuracy.

5. Magazine Tube Problems

Occasionally, shooters may experience issues with the magazine tube of their Henry 45-70. Problems with the magazine tube can lead to feeding or cycling problems. Common causes of magazine tube problems include:

Debris accumulation:

• Dust, dirt, or debris can accumulate inside the magazine tube, inhibiting the smooth movement of cartridges.

Weak magazine spring:

• Over time, the magazine spring may lose tension, resulting in inadequate force to feed cartridges reliably.

Solutions:

• Regularly clean the magazine tube, ensuring it is clear of any debris or obstructions. Use a cleaning rod or bore snake to remove accumulated dirt.
• Inspect and replace the magazine spring if necessary. A weak spring can be replaced easily using a compatible replacement part.

Words Of Caution

The Henry 45-70 is a remarkable rifle that delivers reliable performance and classic style. While it may encounter some issues, proper maintenance, regular cleaning, and adherence to manufacturer guidelines are key to ensuring optimal performance.

By understanding and troubleshooting common problems like failure to feed, extraction issues, firing pin problems, accuracy concerns, and magazine tube problems, you can overcome these challenges and enjoy the full potential of your Henry 45-70.

Remember, if you encounter any persistent or complex issues, it is always advisable to consult a qualified gunsmith for assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Henry 45-70 experiencing feeding issues?

Your Henry 45-70 may be experiencing feeding issues due to a dirty or damaged magazine tube, improperly sized ammunition, or an improperly adjusted feed ramp. Check these components and make any necessary adjustments or cleanings.

What should I do if my Henry 45-70 is consistently jamming?

If your Henry 45-70 is consistently jamming, you may need to inspect the cartridge overall length and ensure it meets the recommended specifications. Additionally, check for any obstructions in the chamber or barrel that could be causing the issue.

Why does my Henry 45-70 have extraction problems?

Extraction problems with your Henry 45-70 could be caused by a variety of factors. Check for a dirty chamber that may be obstructing proper extraction, as well as a worn or damaged extractor. A professional gunsmith may be needed for further assistance.

How can I address accuracy issues with my Henry 45-70?

To address accuracy issues with your Henry 45-70, start by checking the barrel for any signs of damage or wear. Inspect the crown and rifling for any imperfections. Additionally, ensure your ammunition is of high quality and suitable for your firearm.

Furthermore, you will need to add in a good scope to ensure you are firing accurately at a distance. Thanks to the power and maximum range of Henry, it’s an obvious ask to include a scope in your shopping list.

What should I do if my Henry 45-70 is experiencing frequent misfires?

If your Henry 45-70 is experiencing frequent misfires, check the firing pin for any debris or obstruction that may prevent it from striking the primer properly. Additionally, ensure that your ammunition is of reliable quality and stored properly.

Final Thoughts

The Henry 45-70 rifle does have its fair share of problems. Users have reported issues with the rifle’s reliability, particularly when it comes to feeding and extracting cartridges. Some have also mentioned problems with the accuracy and consistency of the firearm. While the Henry 45-70 is praised for its power and historical significance, these problems cannot be overlooked.

Despite these issues, it is important to note that not all users experience the same problems with the Henry 45-70 rifle.

Some have had positive experiences with the firearm, finding it to be reliable and accurate.

Ultimately, it is up to the individual user to weigh the pros and cons and decide if the Henry 45-70 is the right rifle for them, taking into consideration the reported problems.