Description
Ever wondered what it feels like to own a piece of American firearms history that demands precision and patience with every single shot? That’s the experience of the Ruger Number 1.
Californiagunshop is a San Antonio, TX-based retailer specializing in precision rifles and family firearms education. The Ruger Number 1 Rifles Single Shot is a modern classic, chambered in the formidable .45-70 Govt. Its falling-block action and meticulous craftsmanship deliver a level of accuracy and satisfaction that few repeating rifles can match. Available now at a special price of $1,976.39.
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 Number 1 Single Shot Rifle Belongs in Your Collection
I’ve built and tuned hundreds of rifles, from tactical ARs to competition bolt-actions. The Ruger Number 1 holds a special place. It forces you to slow down. There’s no magazine to fumble with, no follow-up shot to rush. It’s just you, the rifle, and one perfectly placed round. I’ve seen more shooters improve their fundamentals with a single shot like this than with any other platform. It teaches breath control, trigger discipline, and follow-through like nothing else. If you’re looking to master the art of rifle shooting, this is your tool.
Detailed Specifications
| Product Type | Single Shot Rifle |
|---|---|
| Material (Receiver/Barrel) | Forged Steel / Cold Hammer-Forged Steel |
| Manufacturing Process | CNC Machined, Hand-Fitted |
| Finish | Blued Steel with American Walnut Stock |
| Hardness/Quality | Heat-Treated Steel, Premium Walnut with Checkering |
| Caliber Compatibility | .45-70 Government (as configured) |
| Installation/Usage | Manual Falling-Block Action |
| Weight (Approx.) | 8.0 lbs |
| Overall Length | 42 inches |
| Barrel Length | 26 inches |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| Condition | New in Factory Box |
| SKU | RUG-NO1-4570 |
How It Stacks Up: Ruger Number 1 vs. The Competition
| Feature | Ruger Number 1 Single Shot | Budget Import Single Shot (e.g., ~$80) | Premium Bolt-Action (e.g., ~$1,200+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Forged & machined steel, American walnut | Cast parts, mystery hardwood or laminate | Machined steel, synthetic or laminate stock |
| Quality & Fit | Hand-fitted, tight lockup, polished finish | Loose tolerances, rough finish, tool marks | Good factory fit, consistent machining |
| Compatibility | Specific to chambering, scope base ready | Limited aftermarket, poor scope mounting | Vast aftermarket for stocks, triggers, etc. |
| Shipping & Handling | Discreet, insured, from San Antonio, TX | Slow international, questionable packaging | Standard retail shipping |
| Lifespan/Durability | Generational heirloom, built to last | Prone to breakage, limited service life | Long-lasting with proper maintenance |
| Price | $1,976.39 (Special Sale) | $60 – $80 | $1,200 – $2,500+ |
The Ruger isn’t competing with a cheap import; it’s in a different league. Compared to a premium bolt-action, you’re paying for a unique experience and craftsmanship. The bolt-action offers speed and capacity. The Ruger Number 1 offers a purer form of shooting discipline and a timeless design.
The Real-World Pros and Cons
What you’ll love:
- ✅ Superior Accuracy Potential: The solid, single-shot action and rigid barrel often make it one of the most accurate single shot rifle platforms available.
- ✅ Unmatched Craftsmanship: The fit of wood to metal, the polish on the bluing, and the overall heft speak to quality you can feel.
- ✅ Teaching Tool: I use single-shots like this to teach new shooters and my own kids. It enforces safety and fundamentals.
- ✅ Heirloom Quality: This is a rifle you buy once and pass down. It’s built to outlast its owner.
- ✅ Caliber Versatility: The Number 1 platform is offered in dozens of calibers, from .22 Hornet to .458 Lott.
What to consider:
- ❌ One Shot at a Time: It’s a single shot. For hunting fast-moving game or any defensive use, it’s not practical. If you need follow-up shots, see our bolt-action or semi-auto rifles.
- ❌ Weight and Length: This is a full-size, substantial rifle. It’s not a lightweight mountain gun.
- ❌ Skill Demanding: It rewards a skilled shooter and exposes a rushed one. Missing means a full manual reload cycle.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy the Ruger Number 1
Buy it if:
- You’re a discerning shooter who appreciates mechanical elegance and classic design.
- You want a dedicated, ultra-accurate rifle for benchrest or deliberate hunting.
- You’re a firearms instructor or parent looking for the ultimate tool to teach shooting discipline.
- You’re a collector of iconic American firearms.
- You hunt in areas restricted to single-shot firearms.
Skip it if:
- You need a high-capacity or fast-firing rifle for any tactical or defensive scenario.
- You’re on a very tight budget and prioritize utility over craftsmanship.
- You want a lightweight rifle for long backpacking hunts. For that, check out our lightweight bolt-actions.
- You’re a brand-new shooter who might be frustrated by the manual of arms. A .22 LR rifle might be a better start.
Common Questions and Concerns
“Isn’t a single shot obsolete?” For putting meat in the freezer with one well-placed shot, nothing is more relevant. It removes distraction and focuses on the essentials.
“What about scope mounting?” The receiver is drilled and tapped. A quality set of Ruger Number 1 rings (sold separately) provides a solid, low-profile mount.
“Is the .45-70 too much recoil?” With modern ammunition, you can load mild to wild. The rifle’s weight and good stock design soak up a lot of it. For a lighter-recoiling option, the Number 1 comes in calibers like .243 Win or 7mm-08 Rem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are single shot rifles more accurate?
They can be. By design, a single-shot action like the Ruger Number 1 is incredibly rigid. There’s no magazine well cut into the bottom, no feeding mechanism to create vibration. The barrel is often more solidly mounted. This rigidity, combined with the requirement to make one shot count, frequently leads to exceptional accuracy. It’s why you still see single-shots dominating certain competitive benchrest disciplines.
How does the Ruger Number 1 compare to a Ruger 10/22 Takedown for accuracy?
You’re comparing a purpose-built precision instrument to a versatile utility tool. The Ruger 10/22 Takedown vs standard accuracy debate is about minute variations in a fantastic plinking rifle. The Number 1 is built from the ground up for a different kind of accuracy. With a good scope and handloads, a Number 1 will consistently out-shoot any 10/22 at 100 yards and beyond. The 10/22 is for fun and volume; the Number 1 is for precision.
Is the .45-70 Government a good caliber for this rifle?
It’s a legendary pairing. The .45-70 has a long, storied history in single-shot rifles. In a strong modern action like the Number 1, you can safely use the full range of ammunition, from mild cowboy loads to heavy hardcast bullets for big game. It’s a versatile, hard-hitting round perfect for the deliberate shooting style this rifle encourages.
Can I use a scope on the Ruger Number 1?
Absolutely. The receiver comes ready for Ruger’s proprietary scope rings, which provide a very secure and low-mounted setup. Using the correct rings is key for proper eye relief and a clean sight picture.
Is this a good rifle for a beginner?
For a beginner under close supervision who is serious about learning fundamentals, it can be an excellent teacher. It enforces safety (only one round loaded at a time) and rewards careful shooting. However, the manual of arms is more complex than a bolt-action, and the recoil of a .45-70 can be intimidating. I often start true beginners on a .22, but this is a fantastic second rifle to build skill.
Where can I buy Ruger Number 1 rifles online?
You can purchase the Ruger Number 1 Rifles Single Shot right here at Californiagunshop (californiagunshop.com). We are an authorized retailer, and every firearm is shipped through a licensed FFL dealer of your choice following all federal and state regulations.
What is your return policy?
We offer a 30-day return policy on unused firearms in original packaging. All returns must be initiated through our customer service team and are subject to a restocking fee. Firearms must be returned to us, not to Ruger. See our full terms on the website for details.
Your Purchase is Protected:
✅ In stock — ready to ship today
✅ Same-day shipping from San Antonio, TX
✅ Discreet, secure packaging
✅ 30-day returns
✅ Secure SSL checkout
This Ruger Number 1 in .45-70 Govt is more than a rifle; it’s an investment in a shooting philosophy. It will make you a better shooter. It will turn heads at the range. And it will be a centerpiece of your collection for decades.
Browse more: Rifles | Single Shot | Full Shop
About this review: This assessment is based on my hands-on experience with the Ruger Number 1 platform over 15 years, including building custom loads for it and using it as a teaching aid. The goal is to give you the clear, detailed information I’d want before making this investment. Last updated: March 2026.
