Ruger No. 3 .44 Rem Magnum Single-Shot Carbine, 22" Barrel (1982)
Produced in 1982, this Ruger No. 3 combines a compact 22-inch chrome-moly steel barrel with the strong Farquharson-derived falling-block action that made the series famous. Chambered in .44 Remington Magnum, it delivers carbine handling in a rare, discontinued platform with fewer than 40,000 units made. Collectors value its limited production run; shooters appreciate the light 6-pound weight and robust design that shares scope block spacing with the Ruger No. 1.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Rifling: Good – Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: There are a few minor scratches and small blemishes on the polished blued surfaces, consistent with light field use. The bore is clean and shiny.
What’s Included
- Ruger No. 3 single-shot rifle chambered in .44 Rem Magnum
The No. 3 was Ruger’s cost-reduced sibling to the No. 1, retaining the same reliable falling-block action in a lighter, trimmer package. Its internal hammer system offers a short lock time, while the single-shot layout encourages careful, accurate shooting.
This example’s 22-inch barrel and straight-grip walnut stock keep overall weight around 6 pounds, making it quick to shoulder and easy to carry in the field. The semi-beavertail fore-end gives a secure hold without added bulk.
Factory iron sights include a ramped, dovetailed front blade and a folding leaf rear, and the receiver is drilled and tapped on Ruger No. 1 spacing for straightforward optic mounting. The polished blue finish contrasts nicely with the satin-lacquered American walnut furniture.
Because Ruger discontinued the No. 3 decades ago, especially in big-bore chamberings like .44 Magnum, production-era examples in clean condition have become increasingly hard to find. Its combination of rarity, solid construction, and versatile caliber makes this 1982 carbine a practical shooter and a worthwhile addition to a Ruger collection.