XS Sight Systems Lever Rail HENRY .44 Review

The XS Sight Systems Lever Rail HENRY .44 Made a Bold First Impression

The XS Sight Systems Lever Rail HENRY .44 promises to be a game-changer for lever-action Henry owners looking to modernize their rifle. This simple rail allows for the easy mounting of optics, transforming a classic firearm into a more versatile platform. As someone who’s spent over a decade in the outdoor and tactical gear world, I’ve seen firsthand how optics can drastically improve accuracy and target acquisition.

I’ve always been a fan of the classic lines and feel of a lever-action, but struggled with the limitations of iron sights, especially in low light. I wanted to bring my Henry .44 Magnum into the 21st century without sacrificing its inherent charm.

The XS Sight Systems Lever Rail HENRY .44 arrived in a simple, no-nonsense package. My first impression was positive: the rail felt solid and well-made, with a clean matte black finish that matched my Henry’s receiver perfectly. Its minimalist design was a definite plus. I worried it might look bulky or out of place, but XS Sight Systems clearly considered aesthetics.

I considered other options, like scout-style rails that replace the rear sight, but ultimately chose the XS Sight Systems Lever Rail HENRY .44 because it mounts directly to the receiver and provides a more stable and versatile platform. Some models require gunsmithing, but the XS Sight Systems Lever Rail HENRY .44 advertised a simple, user-installable design, which was a major selling point for me.

I was immediately excited. The potential to add a red dot or scope to my Henry .44 Magnum was enticing. I envisioned quicker target acquisition and improved accuracy, especially at longer ranges. The build quality looked impressive, but the real test would be how it performed in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting XS Sight Systems Lever Rail HENRY .44 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the XS Sight Systems Lever Rail HENRY .44 at my local shooting range, primarily focusing on how it handled with a mounted red dot optic. The weather was slightly overcast and drizzly, offering a decent test of the rail’s stability in less-than-ideal conditions. Installation was surprisingly straightforward, taking only about 15 minutes with basic tools.

The rail held securely, even after repeated firing of .44 Magnum rounds. It was easy to co-witness the iron sights with the red dot, providing a backup sighting system if needed. I did have to slightly adjust the optic to compensate for the bore offset, but that was to be expected.

There were no major issues during the initial range session. The rail stayed firmly in place and the optic remained zeroed. The only minor surprise was the slight increase in weight, but it was negligible. The added versatility far outweighed the slight weight increase.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including a deer hunting trip in the rugged backcountry of Montana, the XS Sight Systems Lever Rail HENRY .44 has proven to be incredibly durable. It’s been subjected to bumps, scratches, and temperature extremes, and it still looks and functions like new. There are no signs of loosening or corrosion.

The matte black finish has held up well, resisting scratches and maintaining its appearance. Cleaning the rail is simple: a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth is all it needs. This is a huge plus, especially when cleaning a rifle after a long hunt.

Compared to my previous experiences with other aftermarket rails, the XS Sight Systems Lever Rail HENRY .44 far surpasses them in terms of durability and ease of installation. I’ve used other rails that required constant tightening or eventually failed due to recoil, but this one has been rock solid. I am very happy with it’s performance!

Breaking Down the Features of XS Sight Systems Lever Rail HENRY .44

Specifications

The XS Sight Systems Lever Rail HENRY .44 is specifically designed for Henry Repeating Arms .44 Magnum lever-action rifles. The Manufacturer is XS Sight Systems, known for their high-quality aftermarket sights and rails. The rail is finished in a Matte Black color.

This rail is designed exclusively for Henry rifles chambered in .44 Magnum. This ensures a perfect fit and optimal performance. Its purpose is simple, but well-engineered.

Performance & Functionality

The XS Sight Systems Lever Rail HENRY .44 performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a stable and secure platform for mounting optics, allowing for improved accuracy and target acquisition. The rail is perfectly in line with the receiver.

The primary strength of this rail is its simplicity and rock-solid stability. The only area for potential improvement would be to offer versions for other Henry calibers and models. Ultimately, the rail meets and exceeds my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent. The rail is made from durable aluminum with a matte black finish. It feels lightweight and well-made, adding minimal bulk to the rifle.

The design is very user-friendly with no learning curve. Installation is simple and straightforward, requiring only basic tools. The rail seamlessly integrates with the Henry’s receiver, maintaining the rifle’s overall aesthetics.

Durability & Maintenance

The XS Sight Systems Lever Rail HENRY .44 is built to last. The durable aluminum construction and matte black finish resist wear and corrosion. It is a low maintenance addition.

Cleaning and maintenance are minimal. A quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. It appears to be very repairable in the unlikely even of needing a repair.

Accessories and Customization Options

The XS Sight Systems Lever Rail HENRY .44 itself doesn’t come with any accessories. The main customization option is the choice of optic to mount on the rail. This allows for a wide range of configurations to suit individual needs.

The rail is compatible with any standard Picatinny or Weaver-style scope rings or red dot mounts. This opens up a vast array of accessory options from various brands. This is a major bonus!

Pros and Cons of XS Sight Systems Lever Rail HENRY .44

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Who Should Buy XS Sight Systems Lever Rail HENRY .44?

The XS Sight Systems Lever Rail HENRY .44 is perfect for hunters who want to improve their accuracy and target acquisition in various lighting conditions. It is also great for competitive shooters looking to modernize their lever-action rifle for faster and more precise shooting. Anyone seeking to add versatility to their Henry .44 lever gun will benefit.

Someone who prefers traditional iron sights or owns a Henry lever-action in a caliber other than .44 Magnum should skip this product. Also, if you are unwilling to add any kind of rail system, then this won’t be for you.

A must-have accessory would be a quality red dot sight or scope with compatible scope rings. A gunsmith-installed trigger upgrade would further enhance accuracy. Sling studs might also be useful.

Conclusion on XS Sight Systems Lever Rail HENRY .44

Overall, the XS Sight Systems Lever Rail HENRY .44 is a well-designed and durable product that delivers on its promise. It transforms a classic lever-action rifle into a more versatile and accurate platform. The $57.49 price is justified.

I would personally recommend the XS Sight Systems Lever Rail HENRY .44 to any Henry .44 Magnum owner looking to modernize their rifle and improve their shooting experience. If you’re looking to bring your classic lever gun into the 21st century, give the XS Sight Systems Lever Rail HENRY .44 a try – you won’t be disappointed!

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