Sturm Ruger No. 1 24” .458 Win Mag Falling Block Rifle W/ Box, Scope, 1976
SOLD FOR: $1,402.77
LSB#: WY240729JC020
Make: Sturm Ruger & Co.
Model: No. 1 Single Shot Rifle
Serial Number: 130-22166
Year of Manufacture: 1976
Caliber: .458 Win Mag
Action Type: Single Shot Breech Loading, Falling Block, Lever actuated
Markings: The bottom of the receiver is marked with the serial number. The top of the receiver is marked with, “RUGER NO. 1”. The barrel is marked with the Ruger Southport address and, “MADE IN THE 200TH YEAR OF AMERICAN LIBERTY / .458 WIN MAG”. There is a Ruger proof on the barrel.
Barrel Length: 24”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass beaded blade set atop a ramped base. The rear sight is an adjustable flip-up V-notch with a white triangle. There is a Leupold M8-3x scope mounted to the top of the receiver. The glass is clear and undamaged. The reticle is a duplex.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The furniture set is a two piece checkered walnut with a fluted forend, capped semi-pistol grip, straight fluted comb, and Ruger marked red rubber recoil pad. There are two sling loops. There are light handling marks throughout. The checkering is sharp. The LOP measures 13 7/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. Overall this stock set rates in about Very Good to Excellent 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 but there is some stubborn fouling concentrated in the middle of the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. The screw heads are undamaged. The markings are clear. The metal surfaces of the rifle show only minor handling wear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The lever lockup is strong. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements. Tang Safety.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Original cardboard box, paperwork, leather sling, Leupold M8-3x Scope.
Our Assessment: The Sturm Ruger No. 1 in .458 Winchester Magnum is a single-shot, falling-block rifle known for its strength, simplicity, and accuracy. Introduced by Ruger in 1967, the No. 1 rifle combines classic styling with modern engineering, making it a favorite among hunters and collectors. Chambered in the powerful .458 Winchester Magnum, this rifle is designed for big-game hunting, particularly for dangerous game such as African buffalo and elephants. The falling-block action of the Ruger No. 1 is renowned for its strength and reliability. By using a breechblock that drops vertically to expose the chamber, the action provides a solid lock-up that can handle high-pressure cartridges like the .458 Win Mag. This robust action is complemented by the rifle’s overall simple design, which has few moving parts, making it highly durable and easy to maintain. The No. 1’s single-shot capability is preferred by hunters who value precision and deliberate shooting. The .458 Winchester Magnum cartridge, introduced in 1956, is one of the most powerful commercially available rounds. It was developed for large and dangerous game hunting, offering deep penetration and massive stopping power. When paired with the Ruger No. 1, this cartridge delivers a combination of power and accuracy, ideal for situations where the first shot must count. The cartridge propels a heavy bullet, typically around 500 grains, at high velocity, capable of taking down the largest game at close to medium ranges. In terms of design, the Ruger No. 1 features classic aesthetics with its sleek walnut stock and polished steel receiver. The rifle’s elegant appearance, combined with its modern performance, appeals to both traditionalists and those looking for a reliable hunting rifle. The rifle’s barrel length and weight are balanced to manage the recoil of the .458 Win Mag, providing a manageable shooting experience despite the power of the cartridge.
The Sturm Ruger No. 1 in .458 Winchester Magnum has earned a reputation as a top choice for hunters seeking a dependable and powerful rifle for big-game hunting. Its combination of rugged build, precise craftsmanship, and ability to handle heavy calibers makes it a standout firearm for both the field and the collection. -R.E.
