HENRY SILVER BOY
Posted May 19, 2023
Henry Silver Boy by Mark Tinker is an engaging and enjoyable read that offers a unique insight into the life and thought processes of a young man coming of age in the small-town South. This coming of age story follows the journey of Henry Silver as he closely watches the lives of his friends and family in the small, sleepy town of Watervalley, Mississippi. In his early childhood, Henry grew up in a conventional, prejudice atmosphere that was typical for the south during the mid-1970s. As he matures, he begins to understand the importance of understanding and tolerance for others who have different views from his own. He soon starts to question the conventions of the town and begins to plot his own course through the waters of life.
The story is told through the eyes of both Henry and the town's mystical figure, Smokey Aikman. We watch Henry as he observes life and deals with things that that he doesn't fully understand. Through his insightful observations, he is able to gain insight into the way the town is governed and run. He also discovers how complicated the town's lifestyle can be with all the secret societies and clandestine activities.
The story is filled with small details that pay homage to the town's lifestyle—such as the use of Southern colloquialisms, barbecue, and even the days when the town's roads were dirt—as well as issues about racism, sexual politics and a hint of the supernatural that all simmer underneath the sleepy surface. Henry's story is told with heart and grace, taking us through his struggles with being an outsider, his journey towards understanding his own identity and the secrets he discovers while delving into the town's history.
Nick Tinker's writing style is both poetic and charming, and it paints a vivid portrait of the town and its people. He does a great job of crafting characters that feel real and three-dimensional, from the people who embrace Henry to the people who push him away. Everyone in the book feels like a living, breathing person with depth and complexity, and it's this attention to detail that makes the story so believable and enjoyable.
The plot is masterfully crafted, with secrets and twists and surprises around every corner. Tinker reveals these secrets at a tantalizing pace, doling out just enough to keep the reader engaged and wanting more, and it's skillfully done. The climax and resolution are both satisfying and thought-provoking, and the story ends on a beautiful note that captures the true spirit of the town.
Overall, Henry Silver Boy is an excellent read that will appeal to readers of all ages. It offers an interesting view of life in a Southern small town, while showing us the struggles and joys of coming of age. Tinker's writing is both beautiful and entertaining, and this is a story that will stay with you long after you've finished reading. Highly recommended.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Low cost and easy to use.
- Its light weight makes it more portable and convenient for hunting.
- Available in a variety of calibers, from.22 to .45-70.
- Accurate with quality components and components designed for long-term performance.
Cons
- Its old-style rifle sights can be hard to see in low light conditions.
- Parts and accessories can be hard to come by, as HENRY discontinued production of the Silver Boy in 2010.
- Its wooden stock can warp and split over time.
- Not as durable as more modern rifles.
Who Should Buy
Those who should buy a Henry Silver Boy should be individuals interested in owning a reliable lever-action rifle with classic styling. The Silver Boy is a good fit for hunters, ranchers, and homeowners who need a dependable, all-around firearm for a variety of purposes.
Those who shouldn't buy a Henry Silver Boy are people who are looking for a hideaway rifle or a self-defense rifle. The Silver Boy is not compact enough for use in concealed carry and is not built for close-range engagements. It is a good option for ranches and farmsteads, but not suitable for more densely populated areas since it cannot be used as a personal defense weapon.
Comparisons
| Gun Model | Action | Barrel | Rib | Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Henry Silver Boy | Lever Action | 19.8” | Semi-Buckhorn | Satin Nickel |
| Marlin 336C | Lever Action | 20” | Semi-Buckhorn | Blued |
| Winchester 9422 | Lever Action | 20” | Flat | Satin Nickel |
| Remington 870 Express | Pump Action | 21" | Rifle | Blued |
| Marlin 1895 | Lever Action | 18.5” | Ramp | Matte Blue/Walnut |
Features / Specs
•Caliber: .22LR
•Type: Rimfire
•Action: Lever action
•Capacity: 15-rd Tubular Magazine
•Overall Length: 38”
•Barrel Length: 20”
•Weight: 6 lbs.
•Sights: Adjustable open rear, ramp front
•Stock: Checkered American Walnut
•Finish: Polished Brass receiver & buttplate, blued barrel & lever
Popular Accessories
22 LR?
- Rifle Sling
- Scope and Mounts
- Magazine Follower
- Barrel Tuner
- Trigger Lock
- Recoil Pad
- Hammer Extension
- Bolt Handle Extension
- Speed Loader
- Figure 8 Loading Block
Accuracy
The Henry Silver Boy is a classic lever-action rifle and is an accurate firearm. It has a 20-inch barrel with a 1:16 twist rate. This twist rate allows for accurate shots up to 100 yards and beyond, and it's a great gun for target shooting and small game hunting. It utilizes a 6-round tubular magazine that feeds rimmed .22 Short, Long, and Long Rifle ammunition. The Silver Boy is capable of shooting a variety of .22 ammunition accurately, providing a great mix of accuracy and affordability for a variety of applications.
