What can you tell me?

[Whig]

Dick, I have the same numbers (I had to check my files when I got home just now) for the cut off between antique and modern. But, my Mook Krag manufacturing charts that I have at work have this serial number being manufactured around November 1898. Just some more crazy confusion with Krag historical facts! I rely on Mook's charts for most of my dating. They have always seemed the most concise and accurate. Thanks for the correction.

[Hogg44]

So it sounds like the gun is modified to the point it’s not a real collectors item. Also it is just barely not considered an antique. Is there any harm in me trying to clean it up? There is a screw on the side that I’ll try to add a photo that is not tight. It acts like it is bottomed out. Can’t figure out how to remove the bolt in order to clean. Thankshttp://www.kragcollectorsassociation.com/downl ... ew&id=8273

[Whig]

Since it has no real collector's value, have at it! Watch video linked below:

https://duckduckgo.com/?q=removing+a+kr ... n3ikzXxFTU

[Hogg44]

Thanks Whig, I appreciate everyone’s knowledge and willingness to help.

[Hogg44]

I’m guessing that little screw on the side should be tight correct

[scottz63]

I’m guessing that little screw on the side should be tight correct

Absolutely.

[butlersrangers]

'Hogg44' - Welcome to the KCA Forum.

It is pretty neat that your Krag is a family heirloom.

The screw-head of the side-plate screw in your photo looks a bit suspicious.
The screw may be an incorrect replacement, with the wrong thread or possibly it's a correct thread and just too long.

Springfield Armory used peculiar threads and pitch on their arsenal gun screws.
You will not find correct replacement screws at ACO Hardware or most gun shops.

Do not force the present screw deeper into the receiver.
If it is wrong, you risk damaging the threads or jamming the hole with a broken screw-shank.

A correct side-plate screw goes in easily and bottoms flush.

Attached are a copy of your photo and two photos showing original side-plate screws for thread & head appearance.

Original and reproduction screws can be purchased.
S&S Firearms - Glendale, New York and Grandpa's Gun Parts (a link is in KCA classifieds) are good sources.

[Hogg44]

Thank you for the reply and information. Hogg