Slimming down a Ruger No 1

[Adam in WI]

I've got what I assume is a Ruger No 1 B (standard). It's a 26" barreled .25-06 with a longer, what I would describe as almost a full beaver-tail fore end. The rifle shoots great, and I love the action; however it feels "porky". I'm debating trading for a light sporter, or sourcing a different fore end. The latter option being a roll of the dice given the unlikeliness of finding a good match finish-wise. I feel like the light sporter is the right answer for me, seeing as how we have more heavy woods than open field here.

 

[SSL]

I've got what I assume is a Ruger No 1 B (standard). It's a 26" barreled .25-06 with a longer, what I would describe as almost a full beaver-tail fore end. The rifle shoots great, and I love the action; however it feels "porky". I'm debating trading for a light sporter, or sourcing a different fore end. The latter option being a roll of the dice given the unlikeliness of finding a good match finish-wise. I feel like the light sporter is the right answer for me, seeing as how we have more heavy woods than open field here.

You might check Ebay or other sources for an A. Henry pattern forearm set. Ruger used to put them on most of the shorter-barrel sporter models. Maybe someone has upgraded their wood and has the old stock laying arou. I have had quite a few No. 1s over the years. All have been 1Bs because I like that 26" barrel making the rifle nearly the same length as a 22" bolt gun. I also like the longer, fuller forend for bipods on the varminter cartridges. I did change the original wood on my .280 and made a slim, Schnabel-style (sort of) A. Henry length forend to accommodate my damaged left fore-finger that couldn't bend to properly grasp and installed a barrel band for the sling, since I don't shoot a No. 1 with a tight sling...too easy to affect POI with that two piece stock. Finger has been amputated now, but I still like the forearm for that particular rifle and use.

 

[Adam in WI]

I also like the longer, fuller forend for bipods on the varminter cartridges.

This is my first No 1, so I have to ask... How do your rifles fare in terms of first round precision? Do you notice a big poi shift moving to a bipod? I have my fore end free floated, and gave my best go at bedding the fore end to the receiver. One trait I've noticed is that this rifle has significantly more poi shift from load to load than my bolt guns do. Even a switch from say a 115 Partition to a 117 Sierra is several inches at 100 yards. I suppose that could be tuned out given enough effort.

 

[SSL]

This is my first No 1, so I have to ask... How do your rifles fare in terms of first round precision? Do you notice a big poi shift moving to a bipod? I have my fore end free floated, and gave my best go at bedding the fore end to the receiver. One trait I've noticed is that this rifle has significantly more poi shift from load to load than my bolt guns do. Even a switch from say a 115 Partition to a 117 Sierra is several inches at 100 yards. I suppose that could be tuned out given enough effort.

First round precision is actually quite good...as long as the rifle is set up right. The nature of the for-end design allows the hanger (the part where the forearm attaches) can flex or vibrate at differing rates to affect accuracy - first round or a string. Take a look at this thread. https://forum.accurateshooter.com/t...lp-w-ruger-1-in-6mm-rem.3967358/post-37380461 In it I describe a simple way to isolate the hanger flex/vibration while keeping the barrel free and without major alterations. Good bedding where the hanger rests in the for-end mortise is important to prevent 'rocking' of the for-end.
As to bi-pods; as with virtually any two-piece design, it is vitally important not to lean into the bi-pod. Only rest the weight of the rifle on it to prevent flexing of the for-end. That's where it is important to have the mortise a perfect fit. On one of my early #1 varminting rigs, I actually mounted the bi-pod just behind the for-end attachment screw. Never had a problem, but was not very convenient
. Shooting from bags, I always make sure to rest the rifle with the bag located as close to the receiver as practical. Again, proper bedding of the hanger really helps.
Anything else I can help you with, let me know or PM me. Glad to help.