Lever action 22's

[CB900F]

Slowfuse;

Don't ignore the above suggestion for the Ithaca model 49. I used one to start my kids. It's a "lever action" single shot that you'll have to get used, but it's ideal for training purposes. The trigger may need some work, but any competent gunsmith should be able to do that for a very reasonable cost. The cost of the gun should be modest also.

For a repeater, the long discontinued Marlin TDS would be perfect for a child. However, they're stratosphereically priced, and up. Only made for three years and collector interest has long since made them unobtainium for most folks. IMHO the Henry may be the best solution, but there's better lever action .22's out there.

900F

 

[bonza]

I used to be heavily into Lever Actions, my first being a Winchester 9422 purchased new in 1976, & ran the gamut from .22 rimfire to .218 Bee, .25/20, .30/30, .308, .32/20, .38/55, .405, .44/40, & .45/70. It's probably been 20 years since I last owned one, but was in a gun store yesterday & saw what I at first thought was a Marlin Model 39 carbine, but turned out to be a Chiappa. Nice looking little rifle, with color case hardened action, might be worth checking one out with your daughter.

 

[BCRider]

I'd take her shopping for the rifle when you go.

Also figure that even if the Micro Midas is shorter and fits better now that she's only one growth spurt away from fitting the other 13 and 13.5" LOP guns.

A more important issue will be the length of the stroke on the lever. Those of us that have rifles with full stroke length levers find that when we try out a Browning BL22 that we end up trying to rip the guts out of the rifle because the lever stroke is so short. On the other hand those that regularly shoot the Brownings will likely tend to short stroke a Henry or other full stroke lever. And since you already have a full length Browning and likely don't plan on selling it any time soon and it will likely as not be the rifle that your daughter grows into then it makes sense to buy a Micro Midas. It may mean that you end up fitting it with a cuff style recoil pad at some point to make the LOP longer until she fits the full size rifle but likely that's not too far away.

I suppose another option would be to find another shoulder stock which you could cut down without feeling badly. Or maybe find someone that enjoys some wood working and have a shorter stock made from some basic walnut to cover her size needs until she's big enough to use the regular original stock.

If she thinks the lever is fun keep your eyes open for a pump action .22LR. It's like a trip the the old county fair's shooting gallery EVERY TIME! ! ! !

 

[fotheringill]

Great Pic.

Granddaughter also showed no prior interest but picked out a Henry H001T for her first rifle.

I would rather she started with a bolt, but it was her choice after rejecting advice. I got it for her. It is a hoot to shoot. It does, though lack the accuracy of a Savage and a CZ.

She now uses my CZ 452 bolt at the range also tried and really liked my Anschutz 1913a off a front rest. Henry still shot for plain old fun, which is what it is all about.

 

[SlowFuse]

I do enjoy the short stroke of the Browning. I have a Win 1892 and Marlin 1895 so can understand the difference you mention.

I have an (almost) two year old son that will likely get use out of whatever I purchase in youth size.

 

[az_imuth]

If she tried the Browning and liked it, then that's what I'd get her. You already know it's a sure winner and she has her whole life to try out the others and add those to the stable as she gets older.

Great looking pic, and a moment in her life that I'm sure she will treasure forever!

 

[chicharrones]

Thanks for everyone's input. This thread deserves a pic!

View attachment 733846

Great photo. I'd be happy, too!

 

[DPris]

Finally got both to the quarry today.

The Henry Youth Golden Boy shot circles around the Browning Micro Midas.
It's heavier, but easier to use the sights & the action's much smoother.

Just an FYI.
Denis

 

[ifit]

I beleive you the hgb is an accurate lever, I was really surprised how well it shot. But the browning mm sparked my interest on how fast you can get shots out from that short lever throw

 

[DPris]

It is nice, but of the two I'd honestly choose the Henry.
I was quite surprised at how hard the Browning was to work with.
Never had a problem with the full-sized Brownings, but this Micro just was not fun.

For kids, may be a different matter, especially where the shorter lever throw is needed for shorter arms.
Denis

 

[SlowFuse]

Thanks for the update DPris

 

[cpt-t]

SlowFuse: You have a Very Pretty Daughter, and now a very Special Shooting Partner. IMHO You just missed something, that is just staring You right in the face. She is Your Daughter and She Likes Her Dad`s Rifle. Sure You could buy Her any new rifle, but She likes, Her Daddy`s Rifle. I really think She has already made Her Choice very plain to You. What could be better than Your Little Girl wanting to shoot Her Daddy`s Rifle. Do You really think, You could ever buy Her a more Special 22 Lever Action. Than the one She has already chosen. She likes Your Rifle, Her Daddy`s Rifle. You can`t do any better than that. And I bet, Your Daughter will treasure that little rifle, for the rest of Her life. Set back and enjoy your good fortune. And God bless you for raising such a Sweet Heart of a Little Girl.
ken

 

[SlowFuse]

Thanks Ken, you make a great point.