I was thinking today about building a custom ruger #1 or #3. The cartridge i was interested in doing was the 358 Shooting Times Alaskin. Does anyone know what rifle i should start with, what barrel i should go with. For the barrel i would like safari contour with sights. I would prolly be looking for another stock too. Does anyone know were the best place to get the parts would be and get the rifle finished? Thanx for the help Adam.

Well, the basic action is the same with the exception of the levers. Frankly, considering that the #3 is no longer in production, and hasn't been for several years, it has collector value that can only increase. That being the case, my choice would be a #1 that was already chambered to a magnum cartridge. That would at least eliminate problems with converting the extractor.
Paul B.

Adam,

You could just get a #1-H in .375 H&H. Your gunsmith could re-use the barrel band, front sight, and quarter rib if he makes the new barrel to the same contour. A nice, dense piece of Bastogne would look really good on a "Safari Grade" #1 as well.

Greg