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
Review: Taurus 22TUC
Taurus USA's 22TUC is a little, polymer-framed .22 pocket pistol with a tip-up barrel design that, unlike many of the company's guns, is made entirely in the United States.
Korea Coast Guard Increases KelTec KSG Tactical Shotgun Inventory
KelTec recently announced that the Korea Coast Guard has ordered more KSG shotguns to join those already in service aboard the branch's patrol vessel fleet.
Rifleman Review: Mossberg 990 Aftershock
In 2025, Mossberg added to the non-NFA, shotshell-firing firearm category with its 990 Aftershock, which uses a semi-automatic operating mechanism while still maintaining a compact form factor.
Next-Gen Micro Red-Dot: The Steiner MPS 2.0
Steiner Optics has introduced the next-generation version of its Micro Pistol Sight, a red-dot optic that first hit the market in 2021.
Rifleman Interview: Banish Suppressors
The “Plinkapalooza” event in May saw a rimfire extravaganza, with hearing protection from Banish suppressors.
Hunting for the “Grail” Gun in the Modern Era
To really enjoy hunting for “that gun,” burn shoe leather instead of your mouse pad.
Interests
SECTIONS
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
EXPLORE MORE NRA PUBLICATIONS
