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
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
More like this from around the NRA
Latest
Thinking Of Tinkering? Be Honest About Your Reasons.
There are often benefits to resurrecting an old gun, but cost savings isn’t usually one of them.
New For 2026: Woox High Grade Stocks and Fore-ends
Dress up your lever-action, shotgun or bolt-action rifle while adding functionality.
NRA Partners with ‘We the Free’ Streaming Network
The NRA partners with online streaming service We the Free to bring 2A content.
Review: Henry SPD Hush Rifle
The SPD Hush, Henry’s new take on the lever-action rifle, is fit for a wide array of tasks and is an ideal host for a suppressor.
New for 2026: Bergara Platinum Stalker and Cima Pro Rifles
Bergara has two new lightweight rifles to lighten the load in the field.
The Armed Citizen® Feb. 2, 2026
Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.
Interests
SECTIONS
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
EXPLORE MORE NRA PUBLICATIONS
