I have always liked the look and balance of the .375 H&H Ruger No. 1H, but would like a .450-400. Could someone who has either of these measure the barrel diameter at the muzzle and just behind the barrel band (between the barrel band and the forfend tip), and measure the overall barrel length from the face of the breach block to the muzzle?

Ruger No.1-H .375 H&H

Breech face to muzzle - 24"
Dia. at receiver - 1.200 "
Dia. at end of fore end - .875"
Dia. at rear of sight band - .762"
Dia. at front of sight band - .750"

Dia. behind barrel band swivel - .850"

If you end up with the No.1 .375 H&H barrel extra, I would like to buy it.

I would also suggest getting a longer barrel, like 26" or even 28". If you do find it cumbersome, it is very easy to shorten it. Stretching a barrel is verrrrrrrrrry expensive. I am in process on a 450/400/3" on a Steve Earle Wesson #1 Long Range action. See: www.SteveEarleProducts.com If you are big-$$$ he is making an exact copy of a Fraser action as well. $2500 or so.

I have a 450/400 and can measure when back in Aus Monday if you still require it.

Was shooting it last Saturday and couple of friends who shot it were surprised at how mild it is. It has an aftermarket Limbsaver pre-fit pad, custom safety (that doesn't catch the ejecting cases)and rear express sight. I find it lovely to shoot - must need to stoke up the loads a bit!

Best wishes, Chris

I have both; the barrels are the same. length is 24 inch (you don't need it longer) but heavier would be good on the 400. Great hunting weight but light for target shooting. I added a 16 oz merc brake which tames it right down. I measured the diameter at barrel band as .850; muzzle is .750; The safety does catch the brass; so you might want to grind the front tang off. The 450-400 is one of my fav calibers.

Thank you guys.

I was hoping they were the same. Since this will be used to chase elk in thick timber, the rifle being a bit lighter is actually better.

Looks like I am looking for another No. 1.

quote:

Originally posted by Idaho Sharpshooter:
I would also suggest getting a longer barrel, like 26" or even 28".

x2... A No. 1 action allows you to use a barrel 4" longer in length and still maintain the same overall length as a bolt gun. Plus a longer barrel will give you extra recoil absorbing weight without having to resort to a gurgling mercury system in the stock.