Sturm Ruger No. 1 .223 Rem. Single Shot Rifle Falling Block Rifle MFD 1983
SOLD FOR: $1,425.00
LSB#: LSB250528DG034
Make: Sturm Ruger & Co.
Model: No. 1 Single Shot Rifle (#01336)
Serial Number: 132-60879
Year of Manufacture: 1983 (https://ruger.com/dataProcess/serialHistory/)
Caliber: .223 Remington
Action Type: Single Shot Breech Loading, Falling Block, Lever actuated
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “ CAL. 223”. The top of the barrel is marked with Ruger’s 2-line warning and Southport address. The top of the receiver is marked “RUGER / NO. 1”. The bottom of the receiver is marked with the serial number.
Barrel Length: 26”
Sights / Optics: There are no provisions for iron sights. The top of the barrel is mounted with a Redfield 6-18x scope with a duplex reticle. The glass in the scope is clear. The finish on the scope is in excellent condition with minimal signs of use. Overall the scope is in Excellent condition.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two piece checkered walnut with capped semi-pistol grip, fluted straight comb, and red Ruger rubber buttpad. The LOP measures 12 1/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. There is a sling ring on the forend, but only a sling stud in the belly of the buttstock. The stocks show light signs of wear, with only a few scattered scratches, dings, and pressure dents. The checkering is sharp. The finish is strong. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stocks rate in Fine to Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp and deep. There is no erosion, in the bore, but there is one small patch of stubborn fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light wear, with scattered hairline scratches on the receiver. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear and legible. Overall, this rifle rates in Fine to Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the tang safety. The lever lockup is strong. The trigger has a crisp and clean break. We did not fire this rifle, but we did perform a mechanic’s check. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with the Redfield scope as mentioned above.
Our Assessment: The Ruger No. 1 is a rifle that blends 19th-century elegance with 20th-century engineering, and it has remained one of the most iconic single-shot sporting rifles of the modern era. First introduced in the late 1960s, the No. 1 was Bill Ruger’s homage to the British Farquharson falling block, executed with modern steels and manufacturing techniques. Its compact action, elegant lines, and unmatched strength made it an instant classic among hunters and shooters who appreciated the challenge and satisfaction of the single shot. Chambered in .223 Remington, this example offers flat-shooting precision, light recoil, and adaptability for everything from varmints to target shooting.
This rifle, built in 1983, is a particularly handsome example. It features a 26-inch barrel for excellent velocity and accuracy potential, paired with Ruger’s finely checkered walnut stock set. The capped semi-pistol grip, fluted comb, and red Ruger recoil pad retain the refined look that has always set the No. 1 apart. The wood shows only light handling marks, while the blued finish remains deep and attractive, with approximately 98% of the original finish intact. Mechanically, the rifle is tight, with solid lever lock-up, a crisp trigger, and a bore that rates 9/10 with sharp rifling and only the most minor fouling.
Completing the package, this No. 1 is topped with a Redfield 6–18x scope, a quality optic that complements the accuracy potential of the .223 chambering. For shooters who value precision and tradition, or collectors who appreciate Ruger’s take on the classic falling block, this rifle represents an excellent opportunity. It is both a practical hunting arm and a timeless example of Ruger’s craftsmanship during the early 1980s. Please check out our high quality photos, and good luck on your bids! – J.D.
