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
I Have This Old Gun: Walther P38
On the eve of World War II, the German military sought a new sidearm that was easier to manufacture than the P08 Luger. Its answer was the P38.
C&H Precision STRYKR: A Red-Dot Sight for PDWs
The C&H Precision STRYKR is a hard-use, enclosed-emitter optic designed for PDWs and compact carbines.
Rifleman Interview: Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 OD Green Topographic Rifle
At “Plinkapalooza” in May we had a chance to try out the latest Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 rifle.
Patriots Landing Announces "A Nation Remembers" Veterans Weekend
Patriots Landing, a faith-based veterans workshop based in Kentucky, announced it would hold "A Nation Remembers" veterans weekend in Grant County, Ky., from Sept. 16-20.
Past NRA President Allan Cors, 1936-2026: Liberty Takes A Loss
One of liberty’s champions, past NRA President Allan D. Cors died on August 10, 2026.
Moving to the Micro Red-Dot: An Old Dog Learns Some New Tricks
After shooting open-sighted handguns for more than 40 years, the author's aging eyes finally caught up to him, and his concealed-carry pistol now sports a red-dot optic.
Interests
SECTIONS
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
EXPLORE MORE NRA PUBLICATIONS
