Can you change forestock from Ruger #1B to #1A

[mannyrock]

 
Dear Guys,
 
    At a recent gunshow, I was looking at a really nice Ruger #1B in .22 hornet, with a medium sporter barrel.
 
   However, I certainly don't like the big fat forearm on the #1B in such a small caliber.
 
   Is it possible to just buy a forearm for a #1A, and swap it into the rifle, without cutting, gunsmithing etc.  (ie., just unscrew one and screw on the other?)
 
  Thanks for all info.
 
Mannyrock

[Ambler]

No. A "a" forearm has a barrel channel to fit a "a" weight barrel. A 1B has a "b" weight barrel. The swap would require opening the barrel channel of the "a" forearm to "b" weight.

[mannyrock]

 
 
  Thanks for the info.  I can open up a barrel channel with a wooden dowel and some sandpaper in about 45 minutes.
 
  Besides that, will the 1A forearm just screw onto the 1B rifle?  Same hole line-up, and same fitting against the receiver?
 
Thanks again.
 
Mannyrock
 

[Swampman]

My understanding is that Ruger won't sell you a forearm.  If they would, I'd buy a #1 style for my #3.

[Ambler]

Yes. I think the front of the receiver changed slightly in the early to mid 80's, so you might make sure your 1B rifle and 1A forearm are close in age. Ruger isn't going to sell you a new 1A forearm, going to require some hunting.

[mannyrock]

 
 
  Ok, once again, another reason for me to hate the Ruger Co.
 
Mannyrock
 
 

[Ambler]

Keep a eye on Gunbroker. Be creative in the search words you enter there.

[Winter Hawk]

Mannyrock,

There's a Ruger #1 International stock & forearm listed in the general classified forum.  Kinda spendy, but....

-WH-

[Hank08]

Ruger will sell you an AH forend but only if you send them a #1 that originally had an AH forend and they'll fit it for you.
If you have a 1A or can borrow one , send it to Ruger(without the forend) and they will install another.
H08

[eskimo36]

A 1-S forearm will fit a 1-B barrel.