Browning BLR or Ruger #1

[Old Griz]

In getting a nice predator/deer rifle in .243 I'm not sure of which to get—the Browning BLR or a Ruger #1. They are both kind of unique, but I have never had either, nor do I know anyone who has had either. Who has  had experience with one or both, and which one do you suggest, and why? (Also posting this in the single shot forum.)

Many thanks! :cb2:

[Blackhawk44]

Owning both (actually down to one #1 and 3 BLR's), I find that when I head out to hunt or just knock around the brush, a BLR seems to come to hand much more often.  Being basically carbines, the BLR's are easier to handle, whether horseback or getting in and out of a truck, a little easier to carry one handed and snap to the shoulder without thinking.  Accuracy has never been a problem.  My last #1 is not for sale, but the BLR's just seem to be ready to go anytime, like a good dog.  About that .243, in my area, we've found bullet performance on deer to be more than a little inconsistant, whether factory or handloads.  One round will give fine performance then the next will either fragment or pencil through.  Haven't seen that problem with anything else I can think of.  Even a 250 seems to be more reliable.  Just to be safe, you ought to get a 22-250 and a 7-08, 308 or 358.  Then you're covered

[BRL]

I have a BLR in 7mm-08. I absolutely love it. I also have a single shot in .243, although not a #1. I like it too, but not as much as my BLR. It just feels right and is easy to handle. I find it very accurate too. I give the nod to the BLR, if I had to choose just 1.

[257AI]

I guess I am in the minority.  I have never felt comfortable with the BLR.  It just doesn't fit me.  I have never found a #1 that I didn't like.  You can get the #1 in the #1A light sporter  with the 22 inch barrel that makes it real handy.  The Browning does allow you multiple shots for predator hunting.   I have never felt undergunned in deer hunting with a single shot but multiple shots would come in handy hunting coyotes.

[CEJ1895]

257AI - If your in the minority then I'm standing next to you! :-) I too could never get used to the looks and the magazine of the BLR. My No.1 A in 30-06 as accounted for my biggest deer to date and a coyote that was paying too much attention to a snowshoe hare and not enough of me!  :lol: Old Griz - You'd be surprised at how fast you can get a second or third shot off with a single shot with a little practice. I always have two rounds in between the fingers of my left hand when I'm on a stand so all I need to do is drop the lever reach up and grab a round slip it in and close the lever! It takes longer to describe it than to do it. With practice you don't even need to take your eyes off the target. Good luck with what ever you choose! CEJ..