I have heard of the #1 stocks cracking in 458 Lott. Would this also be a problem in the stainless model with the laminated stock ?

I have converted one of the stainless laminate .458 Lott Ruger No.1 rifles to 450 NE 3-1/4".

I trust the laminates less than good walnut regarding splitting. Laminates are more stable/weather resistant, so worthwhile.

I glass bedded the butt to action and inserted two brass screw pins as reinforcement near the tang. There is no room for anything else I can think of, other than constructing some Selous side plates over the tang and grip area, and maybe covering them with leather, or checkering them in stainless steel for the grip surface.

If walnut can split, so will the Ruger laminate. Head it off at the pass.

I have had hundreds of rounds through my 458 lott #1 (stainless/laminate stock). Most were either full tilt 458 win mag, or factory Lott. No cracks here (yet?).

RIP gives sound advice. My #1 Lott stainless/lam rifle started to crack/delam in the tang/grip area after 100+ rounds. Ruger was good about replacing the stock but I sold it shortly thereafter as I preferd my RSM Lott. I would put a good pad on the #1, have the stock bedded just to be safe and enjoy!

John