I have owned 2 AR-7s and 2 Marlin Papoose rifles. The Marlins were more reliable and accurate. My old AR would sometimes go full auto for 2 or 3 shots, which was fun. As for the Henry version, I haven't tried it. I do have two Henry lever actions, and I like both better than my old Marlin 39A. The original AR-7 was a pilot survival rifle. It was light weight, could float, and was accurate enough for small game hunting at close range. I'm still not sold on any take downs, even though the Ruger looks great. I like my S&W kit gun for taking small game at close range. It is pretty accurate for a 3" barrel. My old Ruger single six was superb for small game, back when my eyes were younger.