Custom Ruger No. 1 7mm Remington Magnum 22″ Single Shot Rifle, MFD 1968 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,375.00
LSB#: LSB260406SB023
Make: Sturm Ruger & Co.
Model: No. 1
Serial Number: 4318
Year of Manufacture: 1968, C&R
Caliber: 7mm Remington Magnum
Action Type: Single Shot, Falling Block.
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked with Ruger’s Southport address. The left side of the barrel is marked “7mm REM. MAG.”, along with German proof marks (Reimported to the United States by Simpson LTD., as marked on the bottom of the receiver). The bottom of the receiver is also marked with the serial number. The top of the receiver is marked “RUGER / NO. 1”.
Barrel Length: 22″. The barrel is an original Ruger barrel, but it has been cut down to 22″, and recrowned.
Sights / Optics: There are no provisions for iron sights. The top of the barrel is mounted with a quarter rib that is notched for Ruger scope rings.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two-piece checkered walnut stock set, with a capped semi-pistol grip, fluted straight comb, red rubber Ruger buttpad, a checkered forend, and sling studs front and rear with one sling stud in the belly of the buttstock, and the other sling stud mounted to the barrel. The LOP measures 13 1/2″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. There is a flip-up cartridge trap in the comb of the buttstock, that allows for 4 extra cartridges to be stored in the buttstock. The stocks show light to moderate wear, with light scratches and compressions scattered throughout. The checkering is mostly well defined. There is some iron staining on the buttstock where it meets up to the receiver, on both sides. There is also some light iron staining around the lid to the cartridge trap. There is one minor chip on the right side of the wrist, just above the grip cap. The stocks fit tightly to the barreled action, with no play. There are no structurally compromising chips or cracks. Overall, the stocks rate in 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. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light wear, with light pitting towards the front of the barrel (top of barrel), light pitting on the left side of the receiver where the stock meets up to the receiver, and light to moderate pitting, and light finish wear on the cartridge trap lid. There is minor freckling of surface corrosion starting to form on the grip cap. The rear sling stud shows moderate corrosion as well. Otherwise, the finish is largely intact. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads are lightly tooled, but retain strong and serviceable slots. Overall, this rifle rates in Good 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 marked Sturm Ruger’s bold entry into the single shot sporting rifle market with a modernized falling block action inspired by the Farquharson design. Its sleek lines, strong receiver, and quarter rib system quickly earned it a loyal following among hunters and traditionalists alike. Chambered here in 7mm Remington Magnum, a cartridge introduced in 1962 and long regarded for its flat trajectory and strong long-range performance, this early 1968 example qualifies as C&R and represents the formative years of No. 1 production. The rifle was later exported and bears German proofs, then reimported by Simpson LTD., adding an additional chapter to its history.
This example retains approximately 90 percent of its original blued finish, showing light pitting toward the front of the barrel and along the left side of the receiver where it meets the stock, as well as wear on the cartridge trap lid and rear sling stud. The original Ruger barrel has been shortened to 22 inches and properly recrowned. The bore remains bright with sharp rifling and rates 10 out of 10. The walnut stocks show honest use with scattered handling marks, minor iron staining, and a small chip at the wrist, but remain solid and well fitted. The falling block action and tang safety function correctly as noted. This early-production No. 1 offers classic lines, magnum performance, and the distinctive character that has made the Ruger single shot an enduring icon. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! – J.D.