Ruger No. 1-H Tropical 375 H&H Mag 24″ Single Shot Falling Block Rifle 1983
SOLD FOR: $1,475.00
LSB#: LSB260406SB022
Make: Sturm Ruger & Co.
Model: No. 1-H Tropical
Serial Number: 132-59299
Year of Manufacture: 1983
Caliber: .375 H&H Magnum
Action Type: Single Shot, Falling Block.
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked with Ruger’s 2-line warning & Southport address. The left side of the barrel is marked “.375 H&H MAG.”, along with a series of 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: 24″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass beaded blade, inserted and pinned to a ramp, integral to the barrel. The rear sight is an adjustable flip-up U-notch sight, with a white diamond aiming reference, dovetailed to the quarter rib that is mounted to the barrel. The quarter rib is also notched for Ruger style 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 front sling stud mounted on a barrel ring. The LOP measures 13 5/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The stocks show light wear, with light scratches and dings scattered throughout. The most notable dings are on the toe of the buttstock, forend tip, and on the front of the wrist. The checkering is well defined, and the stock’s finish is largely intact. The stocks fit tightly to the barreled action, with no play. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stocks rate in Good to 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. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light wear, with light freckling of corrosion forming around the muzzle and front sight. Otherwise, the bluing is intact. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads are sharp. Overall, this rifle rates in Good to Very 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: The Ruger No. 1-H Tropical was built for serious game, pairing Bill Ruger’s robust falling block action with chamberings suited to Africa and other big game frontiers. By 1983, the No. 1 had firmly established its reputation for strength, accuracy, and distinctive lines. Chambered in .375 H&H Magnum, a cartridge introduced in 1912 and long regarded as one of the most versatile dangerous game calibers ever designed, the Tropical variant reflects Ruger’s intent to offer a modern American-built rifle in classic safari configuration. This example bears German proofs and was later reimported by Simpson, LTD., adding international history to an already storied model.
This rifle retains approximately 95 percent of its original blued finish, showing light freckling around the muzzle and front sight with otherwise strong remaining finish. The 24 inch barrel houses a bright bore with sharp rifling that rates 10 out of 10. The walnut stocks display scattered handling marks, most notably at the toe, forend tip, and wrist, yet remain solid, well-fitted, and free from cracks. The quarter rib with express-style rear sight and Ruger ring cuts remains intact, and the brass-beaded front sight presents properly. The falling block action and tang safety function correctly as noted. With classic safari lines and one of the most respected big game chamberings ever devised, this No. 1-H stands ready as a timeless single shot rifle. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! – J.D.