Sturm Ruger No. 1 .223 Rem. Single Shot Rifle Falling Block Rifle MFD 1977
SOLD FOR: $1,251.27
LSB#: LSB250509TY003
Make: Sturm Ruger & Co.
Model: No. 1 Single Shot Rifle
Serial Number: 130-44435
Year of Manufacture: 1977 (https://ruger.com/dataProcess/serialHistory/)
Caliber: .223 Remington
Action Type: Single Shot Breech Loading, Falling Block, Lever actuated
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “223”. The top of the receiver is marked “RUGER / NO. 1”.
Barrel Length: 24”
Sights / Optics: There are no provisions for iron sights. The top of the receiver/barrel is mounted with a one-piece Weaver-style base for optics.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two piece checkered walnut with capped semi-pistol grip, fluted straight comb, and red Ruger rubber buttpad. The LOP measures 13 5/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. There is a leather sling attached to the stocks. The stocks show light wear with scattered scratches and dings throughout, mainly on the left side of the wrist. The finish on the stock is strong. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is sharp. Overall, the stocks rate in Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp and deep. There is no erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light wear, with scattered hairline scratches on the receiver. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear and legible. Overall, this rifle rates in Fine to Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The lever lockup is strong. The trigger has a crisp and clean break. 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. Tang Safety.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with the leather sling as mentioned above.
Our Assessment: The Ruger No. 1 has long stood out as one of America’s most distinctive single-shot rifles. Introduced in 1967, Bill Ruger’s vision for a strong, modern falling block design took inspiration from the classic Farquharson action but updated it with modern steels and manufacturing. The result was a rifle that combined elegant styling with unmatched strength in a compact, simple package. Chambered here in .223 Remington, this rifle delivers excellent accuracy with light recoil, making it a versatile choice for varmints, predators, and precision target work.
This example, manufactured in 1977, features a 24-inch barrel and the classic walnut stock set that gave the No. 1 its reputation for elegance in the field. The walnut shows attractive grain and checkering with only light scattered handling marks, while the capped pistol grip and fluted comb enhance both ergonomics and style. Mechanically, the rifle is tight, with strong lever lock-up, a crisp trigger, and a bore that remains bright with sharp rifling, rating 9.5/10 in this writer’s opinion.
Retaining about 98% of its original blued finish, this rifle presents beautifully, with only light handling wear and a few hairline scratches on the receiver. The Weaver-style scope base and included leather sling make it ready for practical field use. The Ruger No. 1 has always appealed to hunters and collectors alike for its combination of strength, accuracy, and timeless lines—and this .223 Remington example embodies those traits in a compact, elegant package that will serve equally well on the range or in the field. Please check out our high quality photos, and good luck on your bids! – J.D.
