I like the frontier model over the basic because it has better sights.
The octagon barrel looks pretty nice too.
I use one of mine for "fun shoots" where targets might be swinging golf balls or suspended Cheerios or peanuts.
At one of the rimfire indoor events I attend, my frontier model easily scores 98/100, 99/100.
However, to be honest, this particular Henry does shoot better than some others I've compared it to.
The Golden Boy 22Mag is such a beautiful rifle I'd hate to use it for fear of getting it scratched or dinged.
