Ruger No. 1B Standard .218 Bee 26” Single Shot Falling Block Rifle MFD 2002
SOLD FOR: $1,552.00
LSB#: LSB250927RA002
Make: Sturm Ruger & Co.
Model: No. 1B Standard (01374)
Serial Number: 133-96819
Year of Manufacture: 2002
Caliber: .218 Bee
Action Type: Falling Block Single Shot
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked with Ruger’s 2-line warning & Southport address. The left side of the barrel is marked “.218 BEE”. 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 the factory Ruger Quarter-Rib, which is notched for Ruger-style rings for optics.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a two-piece checkered walnut stock set, with a capped semi-pistol grip, fluted straight comb, black rubber buttpad, and sling studs front and rear. The LOP measures 13 5/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The stocks show no notable wear. The checkering is well defined with sharp peaks. The stocks fit tightly to the barreled action, with no play. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stocks rate in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows no notable wear. The bluing is deep and dark throughout. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads are sharp. Overall, this rifle rates in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the tang mounted safety. 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: None.
Our Assessment: Introduced in 1967, the Ruger No. 1 revived the classic British-influenced falling-block single shot for the modern American sporting market, offering exceptional strength, clean lines, and a level of elegance not commonly found in factory rifles of its era. The No. 1B Standard, with its 26-inch medium-weight barrel and quarter-rib, has long been the quintessential configuration for flat-shooting cartridges, and this 2002 example chambered in .218 Bee reflects that tradition beautifully. The rifle shows virtually no evidence of use; its metalwork remains deep and even, the stock is crisp with sharp checkering, and the overall fit and finish align with Ruger’s craftsmanship at the turn of the millennium.
The .218 Bee cartridge, introduced by Winchester in 1938 for the Model 65 lever-action rifle, was designed as a mild, accurate varmint round offering higher velocity than the .22 Hornet while preserving modest recoil and superb small-game performance. Though never a mass-market staple, the Bee developed a loyal following among shooters who appreciated its combination of efficiency, accuracy, and nostalgic charm. In a rigid, precision-machined falling-block action like the No. 1, the cartridge achieves its full potential, aided here by a bright, sharp bore and Ruger’s well-executed quarter-rib that allows easy mounting of optics. With its excellent condition, classic lines, and uncommon chambering, this No. 1B stands as a highly attractive example of Ruger’s iconic single-shot rifle. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – J.D.
