Ruger No. 1 Calibers: A Comprehensive Guide to Cartridge Options

The Ruger No. 1 is a timeless classic, renowned for its strength, accuracy, and elegant simplicity. A falling-block, single-shot rifle, it offers a unique shooting experience that harkens back to a bygone era. However, the rifle’s versatility truly shines through its wide range of available calibers. Choosing the right caliber for your Ruger No. 1 is crucial for optimizing its performance for your intended use, whether it be hunting, target shooting, or collecting. This comprehensive guide delves into the diverse world of Ruger No. 1 calibers, providing you with the knowledge to make an informed decision. We will explore common and uncommon chamberings, their ballistic properties, and their suitability for various applications, ensuring you get the most out of your Ruger No. 1.

Understanding the Ruger No. 1’s Caliber Versatility

The Ruger No. 1’s single-shot design allows for chambering in a vast array of cartridges, from smaller varmint calibers to powerful big-game rounds. This is because the action is inherently strong and doesn’t rely on a magazine or complex feeding mechanism. The falling-block action also contributes to excellent accuracy, as the barrel is free-floated, meaning it isn’t in contact with the stock, minimizing vibrations. This design also allows for easy rebarreling, further expanding the possibilities for caliber selection. The design also allows for easy cleaning and maintenance.

The Ruger No. 1 is offered in several action sizes, each tailored to a specific range of cartridge lengths and pressures. Understanding these action sizes is critical when considering caliber options. For example, a standard-length action won’t accommodate magnum cartridges, and a smaller action may not be suitable for high-pressure rounds. Ruger typically designates these action sizes with a number or letter code, often indicated in the rifle’s model designation. Consult Ruger’s official documentation or reputable gunsmiths for specific details on action sizes and compatible calibers.

Choosing the right caliber involves careful consideration of several factors:

Intended Use: What will you primarily use the rifle for? Hunting, target shooting, or collecting?
Game Species (if hunting): What type of game will you be hunting? Smaller game requires smaller calibers.
Shooting Distance: What is the typical range at which you’ll be shooting?
Recoil Tolerance: How much recoil can you comfortably handle?
Ammunition Availability and Cost: Is the ammunition readily available and affordable?

Popular Ruger No. 1 Calibers for Hunting

The Ruger No. 1 is a popular choice among hunters, and several calibers are particularly well-suited for taking various game species.

.223 Remington

A versatile and widely available cartridge, the .223 Remington is excellent for varmint hunting, such as prairie dogs, groundhogs, and coyotes. Its low recoil makes it suitable for extended shooting sessions. The flat trajectory allows for easy shots at longer ranges.

.243 Winchester

The .243 Winchester is a popular choice for deer and antelope hunting. Its flat trajectory and sufficient energy make it effective at moderate ranges. It offers a good balance of power and manageable recoil.

7mm Remington Magnum

The 7mm Remington Magnum is a powerful cartridge suitable for larger game, such as elk and moose. Its high velocity and flat trajectory make it effective at longer ranges. However, it does produce significant recoil.

.30-06 Springfield

A classic and versatile cartridge, the .30-06 Springfield is capable of taking a wide range of game species, from deer to elk. Its readily available ammunition and proven performance make it a reliable choice. It is a good all-around caliber for hunting in North America.

.45-70 Government

A powerful and historic cartridge, the .45-70 Government is ideal for hunting large and dangerous game, such as bear and buffalo. Its heavy bullets deliver significant energy at close to moderate ranges. Recoil can be substantial, but it’s manageable with proper technique and a good recoil pad.

Calibers for Target Shooting and Plinking

While the Ruger No. 1 is primarily known as a hunting rifle, it can also be used for target shooting and plinking. Several calibers are particularly well-suited for these activities.

.22 Long Rifle

The .22 Long Rifle is an excellent choice for inexpensive target shooting and plinking. Its low recoil and readily available ammunition make it ideal for beginners and experienced shooters alike. The Ruger No. 1 chambered in .22 LR is a great training tool.

.22 Hornet

A step up from the .22 LR, the .22 Hornet offers increased velocity and flatter trajectory, making it suitable for longer-range target shooting. It’s also a good option for small game hunting.

6.5 Creedmoor

The 6.5 Creedmoor has gained immense popularity in recent years for its exceptional accuracy and long-range performance. It’s an excellent choice for target shooting competitions and precision shooting. The recoil is manageable, and the ballistic coefficient of the bullets is excellent.

Exotic and Uncommon Ruger No. 1 Calibers

One of the appeals of the Ruger No. 1 is its availability in a variety of uncommon and exotic calibers. These calibers often appeal to collectors and shooters who appreciate unique and historical cartridges.

.218 Bee

A small-bore, centerfire cartridge designed for varmint hunting, the .218 Bee offers a flat trajectory and low recoil. It’s a classic cartridge that’s still appreciated by some shooters.

.303 British

A historic military cartridge, the .303 British is still popular among collectors and shooters. It’s a capable cartridge for deer hunting and target shooting. Ammunition is generally available, though not as common as other calibers.

9.3x74R

A European cartridge designed for hunting large game, the 9.3x74R is a powerful and effective round. It’s a good choice for hunting elk, moose, and bear. Recoil can be significant, but it’s manageable with a properly fitted stock and recoil pad.

.405 Winchester

Made famous by Theodore Roosevelt, the .405 Winchester is a powerful cartridge suitable for hunting large and dangerous game. Its heavy bullet delivers significant energy at close ranges. Recoil is substantial.

Factors Influencing Caliber Choice

Several factors should influence your choice of caliber for your Ruger No. 1:

Action Size: Ensure the caliber is compatible with the rifle’s action size.
Twist Rate: The barrel’s twist rate must be appropriate for the bullet weight and length of the chosen caliber.
Availability of Ammunition: Choose a caliber for which ammunition is readily available and affordable.
Reloading: If you plan to reload ammunition, consider the availability of reloading components for the chosen caliber.

Safety Note: Always consult with a qualified gunsmith before making any modifications to your Ruger No. 1, including rebarreling or changing calibers. Improper modifications can be dangerous and could damage the rifle.

The Ruger No. 1: A Platform for Diverse Cartridges

The Ruger No. 1 stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of single-shot rifles, celebrated for their accuracy, strength, and classic design. A key aspect of its allure is the sheer variety of calibers it can accommodate. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter seeking a powerful cartridge for big game, a target shooter aiming for precision at long ranges, or a collector fascinated by historical and uncommon rounds, the Ruger No. 1 offers a caliber to suit your needs. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this guide – intended use, game species, shooting distance, recoil tolerance, and ammunition availability – you can select the perfect caliber to unlock the full potential of your Ruger No. 1 and enjoy a truly unique and rewarding shooting experience. Many find the single shot rifle challenges them to take their time and make the first shot count.