The history of Henry Repeating Arms traces back to 1860, when Benjamin Tyler Henry, an innovative gunsmith, developed the first successful lever-action repeating rifle. His rifle, known as the Henry Model 1860, became iconic for its unique lever mechanism, which allowed for rapid-fire capability with a high ammunition capacity, a significant advantage over single-shot rifles. This invention played a notable role during the American Civil War, earning a reputation among Union soldiers and even being called "the rifle you could load on Sunday and shoot all week long" due to its impressive 16-round capacity. The original Henry rifle laid the groundwork for repeating arms, fundamentally changing firearm design and performance.
In the 1990s, Louis and Anthony Imperato, a father-son team with a long-standing commitment to firearms manufacturing, revitalized the Henry name. Louis Imperato had been in the firearm industry since the 1960s, and Anthony, who would become the driving force behind Henry Repeating Arms, grew up immersed in the business. They sought to honor Benjamin Tyler Henry’s legacy by reintroducing a line of American-made, high-quality lever-action rifles. In 1996, they launched the Henry H001 .22 caliber rifle, a model designed to be affordable yet well-crafted, embodying Henry’s commitment to craftsmanship and accessibility.
Henry Repeating Arms quickly established itself as a major name in the firearms industry, primarily due to its dedication to producing all-American products. Every rifle and shotgun the company manufactures is made in the United States, with manufacturing facilities in Rice Lake, Wisconsin, and Bayonne, New Jersey. The company’s emphasis on “Made in America” became a cornerstone of its brand identity, appealing to a customer base that valued domestically produced firearms. This commitment to American manufacturing helped Henry earn a reputation for reliability, high quality, and a focus on customer service, with each firearm carrying a lifetime guarantee.
In addition to classic lever-action rifles, Henry Repeating Arms expanded its catalog to include a range of models and calibers, including single-shot rifles, shotguns, and tribute editions that honor historical events, law enforcement, and the military. The company has remained true to its roots, emphasizing simplicity in design and functionality. Anthony Imperato has been hands-on in leading the company, advocating for traditional American values, and ensuring each firearm upholds the Henry standard of quality. The “Henry Guarantee” – a lifetime warranty and commitment to stand behind every product – has cemented a loyal following and strengthened the brand’s reputation.
Today, Henry Repeating Arms is one of the top firearms manufacturers in the United States, with a product lineup that appeals to hunters, sport shooters, and collectors. Their rifles are cherished not only for their practicality and reliability but also for the heritage and craftsmanship they embody. The company continues to grow, expanding its reach both domestically and internationally while maintaining its dedication to American-made, quality firearms.