JMOfartO:
It seems like every time I read a thread devoted to lever action 22cal rifles, no matter the theme of the thread, it generally deteriorates into an argument about the virtues of the older Marlin 39A's vs the new Henrys..
If you read the various firearm forums, on the sub-sections devoted to rimfire rifles, you'll see that most Henry owners are extremely fond of their choices, and offend pretty easily when the quality or durability of the Henry is questioned by owners of other lever action 22 cal rifles, especially those from Marlin 39 owners.
You'll also find that the general consensus is that the "older" Marlin 39A's (and other members of the Model 39 family) are as highly thought of by their owners, as are the Henry folks of their choices.
Additionally, it seems that there seems to be a great deal of conversation about how some of the perceived "quality" of the older guns is missing in the NEW Marlin 39A's..
And then there's always the few who love the Winchester 9422 (?)..
And, a couple who love the Browning BL22..
I'm old, and I'm sure my logic is flawed, but here's my opinion..
I think, generally speaking, they ARE ALL good choices..
Each manufacturer has it's share of lemons, but I believe most Henry's, Marlin 39's, Browning BL22's, and if you can find one, the Winchester 9422's are generally made of pretty darn good stuff.
And I believe all of them, if properly cared for, will provide at least a generation or two of plinking, or putting tree rats on the table, pleasure.
For me personally in a lever action rimfire rifle, I've turned into a Marlin 39 kinda guy. I have three 39's (1950/75/96), and two Century Limited's (1970).
But, I also have two Browning SA22's, and one Winchester 63 in autoloaders, and love 'em all.
I'm just glad we have so many choices...
So, if your budget, or even just your CHOICE, is a Henry, I'm betting you'll get a very good rifle, and at a very reasonable price.
On the other hand, if for whatever reason, you don't want a Henry, then any of the others will certainly do a good job for you.
I'm kinda of the opinion that older folks such as myself put more value on older things, including 22 cal.rifles... We are convinced that the older stuff was made "better", and we're not going to let facts get in the way of our opinions...
Of course we are also of the opinion (generally speaking) that every succeeding generation after the "Greatest generation" (including our own) has gotten lazier, fatter, and less inclined to "tote their load"....
And, as with every generation before us, we are convinced "our" America is going to hell in a hand basket..
Problem is I think we're right this time..
No offense to nobody, no way, no how, and triple negatives don't bother me in the least.
Selah.
Jesse