Single Shot Rifle?

Question

I am looking at purchasing a single-shot rifle to add to my collection. The Ruger 1 look like great rifles but I'm trying to be a little price conscious.

I was thinking about the NEF/H&R Handi-Rifle in either .270, .308, or .243. Maybe even a niced varible power scope.

Any information and suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

I plan to use this rifle for deer.

I also agree that the .22-.250 is an excellent round, I have one in a Smith & Wesson on a Howa 1500 action.

I've looked at the T/C Encore, but there is just something about it I just don't like. They're excellent firearms, just no personal liking to them.

Answer 1

I am a handi rifle fan. They are simple and shoot well. I would venture to say that dollar for dollar they are the best value on the market based on useful life. The 270 will be the best serving of the stated caliber range you gave above. The ruger #1 is about the best finished single shot out there and the overlooked Mossberg SSI is a great deal. All single shots I have had the chance to shoot shot very well and ease of use can't get easier then the handi rifle line. The Ruger's is good rifles but they have a lot of guts to worry about the handi rifle only has the trigger group and ejector to worry with.

Answer 2

The Ruger #1 and the NEF handi-Rifle are at opposite ends of the spectrum, and hardly comparable. The Handi rifle is an excellent choice for a practical, inexpensive and accurate rifle. The list of available calibers makes this an excellent addition to any collection owned by an active hunter.

The Ruger #1 is the "Champagne" of the high end rifles and as DJ put it...It's not your typical "field gun" by anyones comparison, and causes instant concern about scratching and damage. I have 2 #1's and I love them, but I also have a tendency to "baby" them to the point I don't take one out on rainy days.lol The Handi-rifle is a "work-horse" rifle that will take anything you dish out and still give you accuracy no matter what...

Answer 3

I have a Ruger No. 1 and I tell you I don't even like to take it out for fear I'll drop it and scratch it up. Seriously.

Get a NEF, your caliber choices are right on.

From the somewhat crude wood work, it's best to get the synthetic stock, IMO.

Now, used to be you could ship the rifle to the factory for an additional barrel fitted in a different caliber for under $100. This way you can convert from a lighter caliber or varmit caliber to a fuller-sized one. Neat. Also, you can get them to lower the factory heavy trigger and lighten it up while the barrel is fitted. Very cool for a budget rifle.

Also, save some money or get a better quality fixed power scope. I have variable powered scopes that have been well used and have still never been changed on the power setting. A fixed power scope works great for most people, especially with an economy setup. Cheaper fixed scopes are better than cheaper variable scopes...IMO.

Answer 4

Why not a caplock or flintlock muzzleloader? (I believe in using these over the newer 'inline' styles for BP hunting, and no scope; BUT I DO use modern firearms also!)

With practice you can get good enough to hunt just about any american game animal with a .50 or .54

I have .32, .50 (cap & flint), and a cartridge 45-70 rolling block.
I also have 2-30/06, 1-308 (with or without scope), 1-220 swift (with 10-40 scope), 1-444 marlin; as well as handguns and shotguns.

Answer 5

my first deer rifle was a .270 NEF single shot. killed several deer with it. good shooter. i had a 3x9x40 scope on it. good rifle at a good price. occasionally on the shooting range it would get hot and get a bit hard to crack open because the hot barrel would swell. in .270 or .308, it's hard to beat.

Answer 6

Have you looked into the Thompson Center rifles???

Answer 7

The best caliber for the purpose you will be using it for is the 30-06...***

Answer 8

22/250
i once shot the intestine out of a woodchuck at 100 yards

Answer 9

You haven't said what use you want for the gun.