Gentlemen,
I notice that there are quite a few different experiences related here in regards to the Ruger #1. This is just what I would expect. I own, load for, and shoot several #1s, and have had just about all of the above experiences with one or another. I say, just about all, because I have not yet been disappointed by one. I have had challenges in making them perform to my standards, but I have always succeeded.
It's a bit like dating a new girl...It takes some one-on-one time to figure out her individual proclivities and preferences. Eventually, she warms up to you and a wonderful romance develops. Ruger #1s simply require some relationship building.
Here are my observations: #1s chambered in small-caliber, high-intensity cartridges tend to be more sensitive about the forend hanger issue. My .220 Swift and .25-'06 both have well-tuned set screws in the forend hanger, but still, one prefers a Harris bipod while the other likes a sandbag under the receiver. My .357 mag, .375 H&H, .416 Rigby, and .45-70 don't really care what they are sitting on, as long as I feed them what they like. Once I found the loads they prefer, I left well enough alone. They all shoot 1 MOA or better, even the little #1A in .357 mag.
To be honest, I enjoy the "honeymoon" with a new rifle, particularly a single-shot. Most folks I know that have multiple #1s concur. There is a certain passion associated with single-shots, whether rooted in nostalgic romance of a bygone era, or the simple challenge of making one shot count.
Regards,
Schuter