As the Massachusetts Rifle Association (MRA) marked its historic 150th anniversary, Henry Repeating Arms was selected to help commemorate the milestone with the introduction of a limited-edition Sesquicentennial Rifle, built on the company's iconic Golden Boy platform. That rifle is now available to the public for a limited time, and Henry Repeating Arms is donating a portion of every sale back to the MRA to support their mission of promoting the shooting sports in a safe manner and friendly atmosphere.
Founded in 1875 by Civil War veterans, the Massachusetts Rifle Association is the oldest continuously operating gun club in the United States. Its Walnut Hill range in Woburn, Massachusetts, has served as a proving ground for generations of marksmen and innovators whose contributions helped shape modern firearms development and competitive shooting.
"It is truly an honor that we've been trusted to help such a storied outfit celebrate more than 150 years of operations," said Anthony, Founder and CEO of Henry Repeating Arms. "Walnut Hill is perhaps the most historically significant location to American shooting sports, and this rifle is our way of recognizing the people, ideas, and innovations that came from it."
Historical records place the Massachusetts Rifle Association at the center of key developments in American rimfire shooting. Members such as A.O. Niedner conducted extensive cartridge and accuracy experiments at Walnut Hill, contributing to the refinement of the .22 Long Rifle cartridge, now one of the most widely used calibers in the world. The MRA also served as the birthplace of The Rifle, a publication founded by Arthur Corbin Gould that later evolved into The American Rifleman.
"For 150 years, generations of shooters have come to Walnut Hill and stood on the same ground, each leaving their mark and carrying something forward for those who would follow," said Michael DuBois, MRA Director. "Today, it is our members and volunteers who continue that work, giving their time, passion, and dedication to something larger than themselves. This rifle is a tribute to those who came before us, a commitment to those who stand with us today, and a promise to carry that strength forward for generations to come."
Chambered in .22 S/L/LR and outfitted with a blued 20-inch octagon barrel and genuine American walnut furniture, the rifle features detailed engravings that honor the MRA's enduring role in advancing marksmanship. Each Sesquicentennial Rifle is offered at a factory-direct price of $690 and is available as a pre-order item, with every rifle built to order. Estimated production lead time is approximately 90 days, and all purchases must be shipped to a federally licensed firearms dealer in accordance with federal law.
For more information and to reserve one of the rifles, visit henryusa.com/mra150/.