Ruger No. 1-B .220 Swift 26″ Falling Block Single-Shot Rifle w/ Box Project

SOLD FOR: $1,036.00

LSB#: LSB250528MY078

Make: Ruger

Model: Number-One Single-Shot Rifle

Serial Number: 131-44166

Year of Manufacture: Circa 1978-1979 box indicates early production era for the No. 1 (Modern)

Caliber: .220 Swift

Action Type: Single Shot, Falling Block

Barrel Length: 26″

Markings: Receiver and barrel stamped with Ruger proof/house marks; barrel stamped “220 SWIFT.” Receiver flats show the stamped serial 131-44166 that matches the cataloging box. The Ruger crest is present on the forearm cap.

Sights / Optics: No sights installed; barrel is plain and was drilled/tapped for a rear mount in the factory style on some examples (no sighting hardware included).

Stock Configuration & Condition: Two-piece walnut stock set with checkered grip panels. Stocks show light handling marks but overall remain structurally sound. There is a drilled forearm hole for a sling swivel and the forearm cap retains the Ruger emblem. Finish on the wood is generally present but worn in places.

Metal Finish & Condition: The metal is in severely deteriorated condition. The barrel and exposed metal surfaces are covered in heavy surface rust and scale; the barrel exterior has thick, flaky oxidation and localized pitting is visible in places. The receiver and trigger guard area carries heavy surface rust and loss of original finish. This is a gunsmith-project level rifle — exterior metal will require mechanical rust removal and a professional assessment for pitting depth and structural integrity.

Bore Condition: The bore shows defined rifling but is very dark with surface fouling and light corrosion in spots. There are intermittent bright areas, but overall the bore is affected by rust and will require careful cleaning/inspection. In this writer’s opinion, the book rates 6/10.

Mechanics: The falling-block action cycles but has surface corrosion on exterior parts; internal components were not disassembled for inspection. The trigger and safety function should be inspected and serviced by a qualified gunsmith prior to use. 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: Original Ruger Number-One cardboard box is included (box top marked Caliber: 220 and serial line filled 131-44166). No paperwork or magazines (single-shot) accompany the rifle.

Overall Condition: Poor — SERVICEABLE AS A PROJECT. The rifle is a candidate for restoration: stocks are usable with light refinishing, but the metal needs professional attention. Expect surface rust removal, possible barrel relining/replacement if pitting is through, and mechanical servicing. Treat this as a gunsmith project rather than a turn-key shooter or collector-grade piece.

Our Assessment: This Ruger Number-One presents as a complete rifle with its original box but has suffered significant environmental damage to all exposed metal surfaces. The .220 Swift chambering and 26″ barrel are period correct and will appeal to a buyer who wants a classic Ruger single-shot in a project condition. The wooden stocks are in the best relative condition and provide a good starting point for restoration, but the barrel and receiver need close inspection for pitting and serviceability before any attempt to shoot.

This is best described as a restoration/project rifle for someone prepared to invest in rust removal, professional metalwork, and a gunsmith’s evaluation. For those wanting an unrestored, ready-to-shoot Number-One in .220 Swift, this example is not it — but for a restorer or collector who appreciates original parts and correct markings, it offers a solid starting point. We are no longer offering layaway. KF