Henry Big Boy action sticks sometimes.

[Sandy Flakeman]

I bought a Henry Big Boy 44 mag and was cycling the action after I got it home.  I noticed it sticks about half way through the cycle if you do it slow.  If you work the action hard, it's fine.  Is this something that just needs to work itself in or should I be concerned?  I've heard these actions are supposed to be very smooth but this one is a little rough.  Opinions appreciated.

[Graybeard]

It might just need a good cleaning and proper lubrication. That fixes a lot of such problems with any lever gun really. Or it might have a burr or rough spot that some how slipped by QC. It does happen with all manufacturers from time to time. Generally speaking lever actions are intended to be operated briskly not slowly and at times most of them will stick or fail to function the same when moved slowly and easily as opposed to the way they are designed to be worked.

I'd take it down IAW manufacturer's instructions and clean and lube it properly. Look for any burrs or bright shiny spots that indicate excess friction and smooth them up if you find any. If that doesn't fix it then contact Henry they have about as good a customer service as there is in the industry so they'll take good care of you IF there is a real problem with the rifle.

[35Rem]

Is it binding when the bolt is pushing the hammer down?  You may be noticing the hammer being pushed down by the bolt when you cycle it slowly like that.  My Marlin is that way.

[Sandy Flakeman]

It's the loading mechanism that pushes the cartridge up that seems to be sticking.  Locks right up and will not move unless I back off a 1/4" and continue.  I have yet to fire it and have only dry cycled it.  Called Henry and they said to fire the darn thing as they need to be broken in.  If I cycle it very fast and HARD, there is no hang up.  Maybe I'm just over concerned but all I hear about is the smooth action of the Henry and this one locks up .  It seems to be getting better as I worked the action with a little oil.  Henry said if it doesn't improve to call them and they will send a return envelope for postage.  First time I ever heard that from a manufacturer.  The QC guy on the phone was prety confident that it would work itself out.

By the way, this is one nice looking rifle.  Brass  frame in 2007?  What a great idea!

Any suggestion on some FACTORY loads?  I want to use Mags and Special.  Suggestions appreciated.

[scrooge]

I would bet that after a few rounds are shot out of it ,it will work smoother......I have one also,but haven't tried working the mechanism slow.. I have 3-4 hundred rounds shot out of mine,,,Shoots great and works good.....Also check your PM's.....

[30-06man]

Sounds like you just need to shoot if and then inspect the frame. If it doesn't seem to get better send it back. They will handle it.