Description
Ever wondered if a single-shot rifle could be the most accurate firearm in your collection? I get that question a lot from families I coach here in Texas, especially when they’re looking for a rifle that teaches discipline and rewards precision.
Californiagunshop is a San Antonio, TX-based retailer specializing in precision firearms and family shooting sports. The Ruger No. 1 Single Shot Rifle is a falling-block action rifle chambered in .44 Magnum. Its unique design and meticulous manufacturing create what many consider the most accurate single shot rifle platform available today. This model is in stock and ready to ship today for $2,430.89.
Reviewed by Ryan Decker, Firearms Specialist at Californiagunshop. 15 years in tactical retail, former LEO armorer, 300+ custom builds.
Last updated: March 2026
Why the Ruger No. 1 Stands Apart
After building over 300 custom rifles and working as a police armorer, I’ve handled nearly every action type. The Ruger No. 1’s falling-block mechanism isn’t just nostalgic—it’s mechanically superior for accuracy. That solid, single-piece receiver and the way the barrel is fitted eliminate the flex and play you find in some bolt actions. When I take new shooters to the range, especially young ones learning fundamentals, I often start them on a single-shot. It forces focus on that one perfect round. The .44 Magnum chambering in this model makes it incredibly versatile, suitable for everything from target shooting to hunting medium game here in Texas hill country.
Detailed Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Single Shot Falling Block Rifle |
| Material | Steel Receiver, American Walnut Stock |
| Manufacturing | CNC Machined, Hand-Fitted |
| Finish | Blued Steel, Satin Walnut Finish |
| Hardness/Quality | Forged Steel, Heat-Treated Action |
| Compatibility | .44 Magnum / .44 Special Ammunition |
| Installation/Usage | Manual Falling Block Action |
| Weight | 7.5 lbs |
| Dimensions | 42″ Overall Length, 24″ Barrel |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| Condition | New in Factory Box |
| SKU | RUG-NO1-44MAG |
How It Compares to Other Rifles
I often get asked how a premium single-shot like the Ruger No. 1 stacks up against more common rifles, especially when people are weighing options like the Ruger 10/22 Takedown vs standard accuracy models. The comparison below is based on my hands-on experience with all these platforms.
| Feature | Ruger No. 1 Single Shot | Budget Import Single Shot (~$80) | Ruger 10/22 Standard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Forged Steel, American Walnut | Cast Alloy, Beechwood | Aluminum Receiver, Synthetic/Wood |
| Quality | Hand-fitted, Precision Machined | Mass-produced, Minimal Fitting | CNC Machined, Consistent |
| Compatibility | .44 Magnum Specific | .22 LR Typically | .22 LR, Aftermarket Support |
| Shipping | Same-day from TX | International, 2-3 weeks | Usually in stock |
| Lifespan/Durability | Multi-generational Heirloom | Years with Care | Decades of Reliable Service |
| Price | $2,430.89 (Investment Grade) | $60-$80 (Entry Level) | $300-$500 (Utility Grade) |
What You’ll Love (And What You Should Know)
Pros:
- ✅ Unmatched Accuracy Potential: The rigid single-shot action provides a consistent lockup that semi-autos and even some bolt actions can’t match.
- ✅ Superior Craftsmanship: The fit and finish are what I’d call “heirloom quality.” The walnut-to-metal fit is something you rarely see outside custom shops.
- ✅ Excellent Training Tool: I use single-shots to teach new shooters. It builds discipline and marksmanship fundamentals faster than any other platform.
- ✅ Versatile Chambering: .44 Magnum from a rifle barrel is a flat-shooting, effective round for hunting and target shooting.
- ✅ Timeless Design: This isn’t a trendy firearm. It’s a classic that holds value and always draws respect at the range.
Cons:
- ❌ Single Round Capacity: This is inherent to the design. If you need follow-up shots, this isn’t your rifle. For high-volume shooting, check our semi-auto rifle selection.
- ❌ Premium Price Point: You’re paying for craftsmanship. If your budget is tight, we have excellent entry-level single shots that still teach great fundamentals.
- ❌ Specific Use Case: It’s a precision instrument, not a “plinker.” If you just want to ring steel fast, a .22 LR might be more fun.
Who This Rifle Is For (And Who Should Pass)
Buy it if: You’re a discerning shooter who values precision over volume. You appreciate fine firearms as mechanical art. You’re a hunter who believes in making the first shot count. You’re a parent or coach looking for the ultimate tool to teach shooting discipline. You want an heirloom-quality firearm that will last generations.
Skip it if: You need rapid follow-up shots for tactical training or certain types of hunting. Your primary goal is high-volume, low-cost plinking. You’re on a very tight budget for a first rifle. You prefer the modularity and aftermarket support of platforms like the AR-15. For those needs, our full shop has alternatives that might fit better.
Common Questions I Get at the Range
Here are the questions I hear most often about single-shot rifles, especially when someone is handling a Ruger No. 1 for the first time.
Are single shot rifles more accurate?
Generally, yes, and here’s why from an armorer’s perspective. A single-shot action like the Ruger No. 1’s falling block is incredibly rigid. The barrel is fixed directly to a solid receiver with no magazine well or ejection port to create weak points. This creates a more consistent harmonic vibration when fired, which translates to better accuracy. In competitive shooting, single-shots often dominate precision events.
What is the Ruger No. 1 International model?
The “International” typically refers to a configuration with a full-length Mannlicher stock and a shorter, 20-inch barrel. It’s a sleek, lightweight version of the same falling-block action. The model we have here is the standard sporter configuration with a 24-inch barrel, which gives the .44 Magnum a bit more velocity and a longer sight radius.
How does this compare to a Ruger 10/22 for accuracy?
Different tools for different jobs. A well-tuned 10/22 is a marvel of reliable semi-auto accuracy. But the Ruger No. 1, by its very design, has a higher inherent accuracy ceiling. The 10/22 has moving parts during firing—the bolt reciprocating. The No. 1 is locked solid. For learning pure fundamentals, I’d pick the No. 1. For learning to manage recoil and shoot quickly, the 10/22 is fantastic.
Is .44 Magnum from a rifle effective for hunting?
Absolutely. A .44 Magnum fired from a 24-inch rifle barrel gains significant velocity over a revolver. It becomes a very capable round for deer, hogs, and black bear at reasonable ranges. It’s also much milder recoiling than larger rifle cartridges, making it a great choice for newer hunters or smaller-stature shooters.
Is the Ruger No. 1 difficult to operate?
It’s simple but requires a specific sequence. You lower the lever to open the breech, insert a cartridge, close the lever which cocks the hammer, and you’re ready. It teaches deliberate action. I’ve found kids pick it up quickly because there’s no complex manual of arms.
Can I mount a scope on this rifle?
Yes. The receiver is drilled and tapped for scope bases. The classic look is a low-powered, traditional scope, but it will handle modern optics just fine. Just be mindful of eye relief since the action places the scope a bit farther forward than on a bolt gun.
Where can I buy Ruger No. 1 rifles online?
You’re in the right place. Californiagunshop (californiagunshop.com) has this specific .44 Magnum model in stock, ready to ship from our warehouse in San Antonio, Texas. We handle all the compliance and shipping paperwork to make the process smooth.
See It In Action
Sometimes you need to see the smooth operation of that falling block to appreciate it. Many YouTube gun channels have excellent reviews that show the details better than photos can.
Ready to Own a Classic?
This Ruger No. 1 is more than just a rifle; it’s a piece of American firearms history that’s still being made to the highest standards. If you’re looking for precision, craftsmanship, and a rifle that teaches as much as it shoots, this is it.
✅ In stock — ready to ship today
✅ Same-day shipping from San Antonio, TX
✅ Discreet packaging
✅ 30-day returns
✅ Secure checkout
Price: $2,700.99 $2,430.89
Browse more: Rifles | Single Shot | Full Shop
About this review: I’m Ryan Decker, and I’ve personally inspected this model and others like it. My perspective comes from 15 years of selling, building, and teaching with firearms. The goal is to give you the same honest advice I’d give a friend at my local range. Last updated: March 2026
