Description
The Ruger 1S Medium Sporter in .44 Mag/.44 Spec with a 20″ barrel is a modern, single-shot hunting rifle that blends classic falling-block action with Ruger’s robust engineering. It’s a purpose-built, no-nonsense firearm for the hunter who values precision, simplicity, and power in a remarkably compact and well-balanced package. I’ve put a mix of .44 Special and full-house magnums through this one, and its performance is exactly what you’d expect from Ruger—solid, reliable, and surprisingly refined.
Key Features
- Falling-block, single-shot action known for immense strength and lockup.
- Chambered for both .44 Remington Magnum and .44 S&W Special.
- 20-inch medium-contour barrel for a perfect balance of handling and sight radius.
- Classic American walnut stock with a satin finish and a soft rubber recoil pad.
- Adjustable single-stage trigger for a clean, crisp pull.
- Integral scope base machined into the receiver for rock-solid optic mounting.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | .44 Remington Magnum / .44 S&W Special |
|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 20 Inches |
| Overall Length | 38.5 Inches |
| Weight | 7.5 lbs |
| Action Type | Single-Shot Falling Block |
| Finish | Blued Steel, American Walnut Stock |
Look, the No. 1’s charm is in its deliberate nature. That 7.5 lb weight soaks up recoil nicely, even with hot .44 Mag loads, making it a pleasure to shoot from the bench. The 20-inch barrel is the sweet spot for this cartridge—long enough for good velocity, short enough to be quick in the woods. The integral scope base is a huge plus; mounting a scope like a Leupold VX-Freedom or a classic Weaver is drop-in ready, requiring no separate bases or complex gunsmithing. This rifle is built to last, with a price tag of $1347.20 that reflects its quality materials and meticulous construction.
Who This Rifle Is For
This is for the hunter who believes the first shot is the only one that counts. It’s perfect for Missouri whitetail in thick timber or open fields, where shots are typically under 150 yards. It’s for the handloader who enjoys wringing out every bit of accuracy from a single, carefully crafted round. It’s also an ideal rifle for a young or new hunter, teaching marksmanship fundamentals and patience. If you appreciate classic rifle aesthetics but demand modern reliability, the 1S speaks your language.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Incredibly strong and safe action. Excellent trigger out of the box. Beautiful, classic lines with high-quality wood. Versatile with .44 Special for light recoil practice. The compact 38.5-inch overall length makes it easy to handle in a blind or truck.
Cons: Single-shot only—no follow-up shots. The blued steel and walnut require more care than a synthetic/stainless rifle. It’s a niche firearm that won’t appeal to those wanting a high-capacity platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the .44 Magnum enough for deer hunting in Missouri?
A: Absolutely. Within sensible ranges (think 150 yards and in), the .44 Magnum from a 20-inch rifle barrel is a highly effective and ethical whitetail cartridge. It hits hard and shoots flat enough for our typical terrain.
Q: Can I use .44 Special ammunition in it?
A: Yes, that’s one of its best features. You can practice or plink with low-recoil, affordable .44 Specials and then hunt with full-power .44 Magnums. The action handles both perfectly.
Q: What’s the process for ordering?
>
A: As a licensed retailer, we handle the sale and can ship to Missouri and compliant US states. An FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases, so you’ll need to have it sent to your local FFL holder for the background check and pickup. We guide you through every step.
Here’s the thing—the Ruger 1S isn’t trying to be everything. It’s a master of one thing: delivering a powerful, precise shot from an utterly reliable and handsome platform. If that philosophy aligns with your hunting style, it’s a rifle you’ll own and cherish for a lifetime. See the full details and availability for this classic American sporting rifle on our site.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.