Saw a new .416 Rigby Ruger #1 for sale, and the thought occurred to me, this would be an affordable way for me to find out if I can shoot heavier rifles. I mean, I'd hate to mortgage the house for a .450 or something and then find I didn't have the cojones to shoot it. The problem is, I get attached to GOOD Rifles, and would have a problem with selling it later to gather cash for something bigger. I HATE being Poor! Too many headaches!

I'm sure that this must vary from person to person, but I'll just mention that I find the Ruger #1 to be just about the most poorly-designed gun on the market when it comes to dishing out uncomfortable recoil. They are classy and beautiful guns, and I own and love several of them, but they kick like mules.

I suppose that, in a way, this makes them ideal for your purposes. If you are comfortable with a #1 in .416, you should have absolutely no problems with the same cartridge in any other gun.

John

I hear your pain. I hate to get rid of a good gun and lately I did just that in order to get my first double rifle. As many on here have stated, once you get that first one, it becomes an addiction. I just got my first, the Kodiak in 45-70 and love it. Also going to get a Merkel this weekend in a .308, something that I can use without getting beat up. I just spent the last 2 years rehabbing both my shoulders. The weight on the Kodiak really cut down the recoil on the 45-70 from the same loads I shoot in my Guide Gun, which does want to get a bit frisky some times. Save and take the plunge on what you really have wanted all your life anyway, it feels good.

jwm, I've never shot a #1 so was unaware of this. Could be why I never wanted one before, they just don't LOOK right. You know, like a SHARPS. That stock can't possibly have enough drop to be comfortable. But I guess we'll See.

I add weight to the #1s, and they already have a hole in the stock for lead or a mercury reducer. It does make them balance butt heavy, but it cuts down on recoil. Muzzle brakes also work, but have drawbacks....I don't put them on "classic" single shote.

Jim: Install a prefit Decellerator or Limbsaver and you are good to go with the No. 1. Also consider cast bullet loads in the Rigby. Very pleasant to shoot!

When I purchased my first double rifle, a Rigby underlever hammer gun, I was apprehensive about the recoil as well. It was 1/4 in lop and not quite enough drop at the comb. Regardless, I had 100 original Kynoch rounds from the 1960's and, after touching off the first round a pleasing smile came across my face realizing that it was nothing more than a solid push. Less "recoil" than my 20 gauge Citori with high brass loads. When I obtained another double with correct dimensions the "recoil" was even less felt than the Rigby.

Dutch

I have a 450NE Ruger #1 that is one of my favorite rifles. Before you ever fire a shot purchase the "Prefit" Limbsaver pad and put it on. Substantially greater recoil reduction than the decelerater pads. While I have some Warne QD rings for it, I prefer the open sights and at any reasonable range for this caliber, it will flatten whatever you point it at! Good Luck, set up properly you will love it.

10-4, 'preciate the info.

Unless you pad it and weight it as suggested I'd think that #1 in 416 Rigby will kick like a mule. If you want a sweet shooting cartridge get a 450/400, and in order to only break the bank a little get a Sabatti from Cabela's - $4999 to 5499 w/ kickers. Guys here like em. I handled a 470 the other day and it was alright. Actually for the price it would seem to great. I want guys here to shoot the shit outta them first to confirm that they won't get the shooter stomped by a buff. Another great option is an O/U 450/400 by Verney-Carron. Ken @ Kebco had them make one up, said it was nice, and under $7K I think. Big jump in quality too.

Or, get a CZ bolt in 416 Rigby, see if the recoil is manageable for you, and have the basis for a useful hunting rifle to boot.
If you don't hot rod the 416, the recoil is not too bad. If you snort 'em up to near Weatherby velocities, well, it's a bad idea.