Does it float? Yes, but be reasonable. 
The Henry AR-7 is a survival rifle, not a personal flotation device. While the original ArmaLite models had foamed-filled stocks of Cycolac, the latest Henry U.S. Survival Rifle uses a hollow stock made of a more modern and durable plastic. In either case, the stock cap is not designed to provide an indefinite waterproof seal, so the stocks’ cavities eventually take on water, causing the gun to sink. How long will it stay afloat? With the rifle stored inside, the Henry lasted about two minutes—or six minutes with the gun assembled. Realistically, either amount would allow the survivor to recover the gun and get back to the critical task of securing meat for the pot.
Watch the video above by contributor Jeremiah Knupp, which supplements his American Rifleman feature story on the history of the AR-7 survival rifle.
For more, visit HenryRifles.com.
Additional Reading:
The Unlikely Resilience of the AR-7 Survival Rifle
Video: The Unstoppable AR-7 Survival Rifle
More like this from around the NRA
Latest
New for 2026: New Products from Magpul
Magpul announces new metal-magazines, new stocks and pistol frames.
New for 2026: Burris Veracity Riflescopes
The latest generation of Veracity scopes is available in a variety of 5X magnification ranges.
New for 2026: Springfield Armory 10-8 Performance Master Class 1911 Pistols
Springfield Armory and Lipseys have partnered to offer a highly custom 1911 with input from Hilton Yam.
New For 2026: Diamondback SDR-A
Following the release of its Self-Defense Revolver in 2024, Diamondback Firearms has now lightened its design and reduced the cost with the new-for-2026 SDR-A.
Rifleman Review: Walther Arms PDP F-Series 4-Inch
Walther Arms continues to expand its F-Series handgun line, a design initially developed for women but that has broad appeal across the firearm consumer market, thanks to its unique design elements and feature set.
Mossberg Expands Budget-Priced Maverick Line With Semi-Auto Model
As part of its International family of shotguns, Mossberg announced the introduction of the Maverick SA Semi-Auto, a versatile, value-focused semi-automatic platform built to deliver reliable performance.
Interests
Mossberg Expands Budget-Priced Maverick Line With Semi-Auto Model | An Official Journal Of The NRA
- Remington Marks America’s 250th Anniversary With ‘We The People’ Limited-Edition Ammo | An NRA Shooting Sports Journal
- New: Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 10 mm M2.0 Carry Comp | An NRA Shooting Sports Journal
- Federal Unveils New All-American Target Loads Aimed at Trap and Skeet Shooters | An NRA Shooting Sports Journal
SECTIONS
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
EXPLORE MORE NRA PUBLICATIONS
