Sturm Ruger No. 1 Single Shot Rifle 7×57 Mauser Falling Block Rifle 1978
SOLD FOR: $1,100.00
Make: Sturm Ruger
Model: No. 1 Single Shot Rifle
Serial Number: 130-14658
Year of Manufacture: 1978 (https://ruger.com/dataProcess/serialHistory/)
Caliber: 7×57 Mauser
Action Type: Single Shot Breech Loading, Falling Block, Lever actuated
Markings: The left side of the chamber is marked, “7×57” with a PR proof. The top of the barrel is marked, “STURM, RUGER & CO. INC., SOUTHPORT, CONN. U.S.A.”. The bottom of the receiver is marked, “131-14658”. The top of the receiver is marked, “RUGER No. 1”.
Barrel Length: Approximately 22”.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass beaded blade on the raised block. The rear sight is a flip up notch sight with a white triangle under the notch. The top of the receiver is mounted with a quarter rib that is notched and cut for Ruger-style rings.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two piece checkered walnut with traditional capped pistol grip, fluted straight comb, red rubber buttpad, and sling rings front and rear. The LOP measures 13 5/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The stocks show light wear consistent with light handling and long-term storage, with a few scattered dings and hairline scratches throughout. The checkering is well defined. The buttstock is a little loose. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stocks rate in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore, but there are a couple of spots toward the muzzle that show minor corrosion, and there is some corrosion present in the chamber as well. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 8/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light surface corrosion starting to form on the barrel and receiver. There is some scattered light corrosion on the sling rings, trigger guard, and grip cap. The bluing is otherwise deep and dark. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads are sharp, but a couple are also corroded. Overall, this rifle rates in Fair to Good condition, due to the corrosion.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the safety.. 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.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with its original box, and owner’s manual/paperwork.
Our Assessment: Introduced in 1967, the Ruger No. 1 represented Bill Ruger’s homage to the classic British Farquharson single-shot rifle — a strong, elegant falling-block design that married 19th-century refinement with modern American craftsmanship. Chambered here in 7x57mm Mauser, this particular 1978 example embodies both aesthetic beauty and ballistic tradition. The 7×57 cartridge, developed by Paul Mauser in 1892, earned its legendary status in the hands of Spanish troops, Boer marksmen, and African hunters alike, admired for its mild recoil, flat trajectory, and deep-penetrating performance on game. Combined with the No. 1’s robust falling-block action, it remains one of the most graceful pairings in sporting rifle history.
This rifle retains about 95% of its original blued finish and displays all the hallmarks of Ruger’s early craftsmanship — rich walnut stocks with crisp checkering, a sculpted receiver with integral quarter rib, and elegant proportions throughout. While there are some scattered spots of light corrosion on the metal and minor wear on the stocks, the rifle remains handsome and entirely functional, with a bright, sharp bore that rates an 8 out of 10. The inclusion of its original box and paperwork adds further appeal for Ruger enthusiasts and collectors of fine American single-shots. A timeless rifle from an era when Ruger sought to blend the old world of sporting tradition with modern precision and reliability. Please check out our high quality photos, and good luck on your bids! – J.D.
