Adam12,
The first caribou I ever shot was with the Ruger #1.
I had a Leupold compact 2.5x scope in the factory Ruger rings on it, because they had quit making their 3x scope unfortunately.
Now that a proper safety tab is available that does not block the fired empty from actually ejecting, I often ponder getting another one.
Now though, I believe I would put a slightly longer tube scope than the tiny 2.5x, such as: perhaps splurge and get an Austro-German low power scope (Ruger single shots look top-heavy to me with 40mm or 42mm front lens scopes on them).
The 2.5x is no longer as clear as it was for me when I was younger (lenses are too lose together. The longer but still small, discontinued 3x was better for my eyes).
To answer your question about recoil, I like the 300 gr Hornady RNSP at about 2400 FPS, and I have a Gunsmith put Pachmayer brand "Decelerator" pads on all my decent kickers.
With that "bottom of the book" load and that replacement anti-recoil pad, the Ruger #1 is not harsh.
(I have used that load in Alaska and Africa in various rifles, with perfect results).
Cheerio,
Velo Dog.