Questions about the No.1

[ruggedruger]

Guys,

I really love the look and feel of the No.1. I do not own one, but have seen a few around. A few questions from the novice here.

Would you recommend this as one's first and only hunting rifle?

Would you want one in a situation where you'd need (or want) to reload quickly? (implying that I assume they are slower to reload).

Anyway, I'm showing my novicity (made that up), but I love learning.

Thanks.

 

[rowdy1972]

It all depends on what your comfortable with,If your using a single shot rifle you learn to try and make the first one count.As far as the second shot..maybe some will disagree but if you carry a extra shell in your hand or in a loose pocket,you will find that a NO1 can be reloaded and fired near as fast as a bolt rifle.
Ive used a NO1 for 40+ yrs and I can honestly say ive never lost a animal due totally to the lack of a second shot.

Like i said though its all in what your comfortable with.

 

[ruggedruger]

Thanks rowdy. I've not shot many deer yet, but never needed a second shot either. I believe in making the first count as well. That being said, I expect to make a mistake someday.

I just love the look and feel of 'em. I think the mechanism is pretty neat. I've seen one for sale at a pawn shop nearby, although I think they had it at over 800 bucks.

 

[rowdy1972]

They are a very reliable rifle.not a lot to go wrong with them.You will find though they are a little pricey compared to other rifles.

 

[Chief 101]

I like the No. 1 but if you are wanting one for hunting I would go for a used already scratched one. You may not want to put the first ding on a new one, for obvious reasons...Chief aka Maxx Load

 

[mike-c]

Greetings,

Most people do not put many rounds through a center fire rifle. With factory ammo, it is just too expensive. A slightly used rifle is cheaper than a new one, and is just, as good as, a new one after the first shot.

Mike 8)

 

[luvs2hunt62]

I got my first #1 about 6 years ago in a trade, and I had no idea what a #1 was or what it was worth. After my first trip to the range, I was hooked to the extant that since then I have used nothing else to hunt with except for ducks. I've taken whitetails, hogs, a bear, and coyotes, and never needed a second shot. I admit I was a little nervous when i drew down on the bear, but I didn't need the cartridge clutched in the bottom three fingers of my right hand. Only having one shot adds a whole new dimension to your outlook on hunting!

 

[rugerjunkie]

And for the single shot hunters wether it be a No.1 , TC , or one of my favorites , an XP-100 pistol , Thompson has a 2 round shell holder that adjusts and opens far enough to get around the sleeve of a hunting coat. Been using one for years and keeps 2 extra rounds close by and easy to access. I wear it on my left arm and is pretty darn quick if a follow up shot is needed wether I'm using a No.1 or my XP.

 

[Buckeye Bill]

I started off with an RSI in 7x57 and that started the collection. Now I have six of them and I am always trying to find ways to finance my next one. My 6.5x55 is an outstanding rifle that can do most any hunting task that I would encounter. Careful, you might go down the same path I have and find your No.1's are pushing your bolt guns out of the safe for trade fodder.

 

[El Numero Uno]

There is no reason the Ruger No.1 could not be your "one and only" hunting rifle. There is a lot to like about this very classy and classic rifle. Most No.1 users/shooters do not concern themselves with the follow up shot, as they generally only take makeable shots. Those adventurous enough to take on dangerous game practice the reloading and become quite adept at it, as noted by others. You might pick up a copy of Clayton's 2nd Printing of the Ruger No.1 book. You would be better acquainted with the various models and history. A current catalog will tell you what is available today, but many very desirable caliber/configurations have been made in the past that you will not see in the current catalog.
The Ruger No.1 is kind of like the Lays potato chips; you probably will not end with just one, if you ever get the 1st one!

 

[SteveRuger]

I got my first No.1 about 20 years ago in a 243 it had a 4 digit serial 3 & brown butt that I put up to my should & it fit real nice so I traded a Remington 788 in 222 for it. I still feel I got the better of the trade. I know I have added alot to the safe since. I use my 218 Bee for varmit hunting. Love the No.1's.

 

[MMichaelAK]

A Number 1 in 30-06 will do anything you need it to do in North America when it comes to hunting. I started with a 1H in .375 H&H and it's not out of control now but it could be if I'm not careful because they are gorgeous rifles and handle so well. It might be a bit much for varmints, but that's what handloading is for.

Clutch a couple extra cartridges between the index, middle and third finger of your left hand (if shooting right handed) and it's a fast reload.