Sturm Ruger No. 1 Single Shot Rifle 416 Rigby Falling Block Hunting Rifle

SOLD FOR: $1450.50

Make: Sturm Ruger

Model: No. 1 Single Shot Rifle

Serial Number: 133-40655

Year of Manufacture: 1997 (https://ruger.com/dataProcess/serialHistory/)

Caliber: 416 Rigby

Action Type: Single Shot Breech Loading, Falling Block, Lever actuated

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “.416 Rigby” with a PR proof.  The top of the barrel is marked “BEFORE USING GUN-READ WARNINGS IN INSTRUCTION MANUAL AVAILABLE FREE FROM / STURM, RUGER & CO, INC., SOUTHPORT, CONN. U.S.A.”.  The top of the receiver is marked “RUGER / No.1”. The bottom of the receiver is marked “133-40655”.  The bottom of the grip has a Ruger Logo. The buttpad has a Ruger Logo.

Barrel Length: Approximately 24”.

Sights / Optics:  The top of the receiver has a rail with Ruger scope ring provisions.  The front sight is a brass beaded blade screwed to a raised fluted base on top of the barrel.  The rear sight is a flip up fully adjustable u notch leaf sight with a white diamond under the notch.

Stock Configuration & Condition:  The stocks are two piece checkered walnut with traditional capped pistol grip, straight comb, sling stud in the bottom of the buttstock, and rubber buttpad.  There is some light handling wear.  The checkering is crisp and the peaks are sharp.  There are no chips or cracks.  The LOP measures 13.75″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad.  The stocks rate in about Very Good overall condition.  There are a couple compression marks and a couple of the peaks on the left side of the handguard are dulled.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition:  The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp and deep. There is no erosion.  The bore does need a light cleaning.

Overall Condition:  This rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish.  The screw heads are undamaged.  The markings are clear.  There is some finish loss on the front sight band with some scuffs and scratches.  The actuating lever has some light scratches.   Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition.

Mechanics:  The action functions correctly. The lever lockup is strong. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements. Tang Safety.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories:  This rifle comes with its factory box.

Our Assessment:  The Ruger No. 1 in 416 Rigby is a single-shot rifle that combines traditional aesthetics with modern engineering. This particular chambering in the powerful 416 Rigby cartridge positions the rifle as a prime choice for dangerous game hunting. Introduced in the 1960s by Sturm, Ruger & Co., the No. 1 series harkens back to classic British falling-block designs, offering a level of craftsmanship that appeals to collectors and serious hunters alike.

Constructed with a robust, one-piece frame, the No. 1 is built for durability and longevity. It features a solid falling-block action that is simple yet extremely strong, adding to the rifle’s overall reliability.  Its 24-inch barrel delivers excellent accuracy and the muzzle velocity needed for the heavy 416 Rigby rounds, which are renowned for their stopping power against large, dangerous game.

In summary, the Ruger No. 1 in 416 Rigby is a blend of tradition and performance, designed for the hunter or collector who values both. The single-shot nature of the rifle demands skill and precision, making each shot count, particularly in high-stakes hunting situations. It’s not just a firearm; it’s a statement of shooting as an art form, requiring a heightened level of engagement and respect from its user. This makes the Ruger No. 1 an intriguing choice for those who appreciate the nuances of both firearm history and hunting as a sport.