Ruger No. 1B .243 Win. 26” Single Shot Falling Block Rifle & Scope MFD 1981
SOLD FOR: $1,526.00
LSB#: LSB250902JM067
Make: Sturm Ruger & Co.
Model: No. 1B
Serial Number: 132-27524
Year of Manufacture: 1981
Caliber: .243 Winchester
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 “.243 WIN.”. 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 receiver is mounted with a Leupold Vari-X III 3.5-10×50 scope with a duplex reticle. The glass in the scope is clear. The scope shows light wear, with only a few dings on the leading edge of the objective. Overall, the scope rates in Fine to Excellent condition. The scope is mounted on the quarter rib, and sits in Ruger 1” 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 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, with only a few light scratches and dings scattered throughout both the buttstock and the forend. The checkering remains well defined with sharp peaks. The stock’s finish is strong and the wood grain is attractive. The stocks fit tightly to the barreled action, with no play. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stocks rate in Fine 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 Fine to 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: This rifle comes with a plastic hard case, and the scope as mentioned above.
Our Assessment: Ruger’s No. 1B is one of the most elegant and mechanically refined single-shot sporting rifles of the modern era, pairing a strong falling-block action with classic walnut-and-blued-steel styling. Built in 1981, this example represents the No. 1 during a highly regarded production period, when Ruger’s investment-cast receivers, hand-checkered walnut stocks, and precisely fitted quarter ribs made these rifles stand out in both appearance and accuracy. The 26″ medium-weight barrel offered on the 1B configuration provides excellent velocity potential and stable harmonics, which pairs beautifully with the flat-shooting .243 Winchester chambering.
Introduced in the 1950s, the .243 Winchester quickly became one of America’s most popular dual-purpose cartridges—light recoiling yet fully capable for varmints, predators, and medium game. In a rigid single-shot action like the Ruger No. 1, the .243 achieves impressive precision with this rifle’s bore condition being bright, sharp, and rated 10/10, shows it has been exceptionally well cared for. The walnut stock set remains equally strong, with crisp checkering, clean finish, and only light handling marks that reflect honest, minimal use.
The rifle is topped with a Leupold Vari-X III 3.5–10×50, a premium optic known for clarity, ruggedness, and sharp low-light performance. Mounted securely in Ruger 1″ rings on the factory quarter rib, the scope enhances the practical utility of this already capable platform. Metal finish retention is outstanding at approximately 99%, with deep, even bluing and clean markings throughout.
Altogether, this 1981 No. 1B is a Fine to Excellent example of Ruger’s iconic single-shot rifle; accurate, beautifully built, and configured in a versatile, highly effective chambering. It is a standout choice for hunters and collectors alike who appreciate the workmanship and performance of the classic No. 1 series. Please check out our high quality photos, and good luck on your bids! – J.D.
