More than any firearm, the lever action rifle is America's gun, representing American engineering, style, and practicality-so much that the name Winchester, is virtually synonymous with rifle. Its fast action, light weight, balance, handiness and good practical accuracy made it an unbeatable tool during the latter half of the 19th century. Although there are rifles and assault rifles that shoot faster, reach out further, and offer superior stopping power, that old style lever action might still be the best all around tool for either self defense or hunting for the 21st century.

The lever action became a practical, reliable killing machine in 1860 when Benjamin Henry designed the Henry rifle for Oliver Winchester. But by the end of the Civil War less than 10,000 Henry's were in the hands of Union troops. Although the rifled musket and the Minnie ball had revolutionized warfare by the time of the Civil War the difference in lethality between the Henry and the rifled musket were staggering. Firing the 44 rim fire metallic cartridge, ammunition for the Henry was much more reliable than the black powder paper cartridges used during the Civil War by the rifled musket. But what really made it a wonder weapon was its ability to rip off 15 shots as fast as the lever and trigger could be pulled. But those responsible for arms procurement during the War felt that the Henry would be too wasteful of ammunition. Had most Northern troops been armed with the Henry, the prolonged bloodbath would have ended in short order.

The relatively few Henrys used during the Civil War were never issued to units larger than company size. In most cases they were purchased by individual soldiers willing to pay a steep price for the terrific edge the Henry gave them. The Henry evolved into the 1866 Winchester, followed by the 1873 model chambered for the more powerful .44-40 cartridge. 44-40 meant a 44 caliber bullet backed by 40 grains of black powder, the same charge backing the 45 Colt, which became renowned in the 45 Single Action Army revolver as a man stopper. Although the 1873 Winchester rifle would be offered in a variety of chamberings, the 44-40 was the most favored because of its greater stopping power.

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