Whats so special with this?

[Kerz]

Stumbled on this sight via Ebay. So $795, really
http://www.ebay.com/itm/VERY-SCARCE-ORIGINAL-US-SPRINGFIELD-M-1896-KRAG-CARBINE-REAR-SIGHT-SCREWS-/192128686045

Vic

[psteinmayer]

I think this is from the same guy selling an 1898 Carbine stock for $1,595. If you look at that stock, you'll see problems, like a crack forming in the wrist area.

Hmmmmmm

[butlersrangers]

The sight is a model 1896 carbine sight, which is difficult to find detached from a carbine.

Such sights do get routinely priced and seem to sell for around $450 to $600.

The seller appears to be 'parting out' a model 1898 carbine.

He seems to be asking top dollar for his parts.

(MY 2 Cents):

There are a number of sellers on ebay and gunbroker, who engage in the practice of taking Krags apart and selling the parts to maximize their profits.

It is their Right, but, I deplore the practice. (I won't name these people or buy from them).

There are damaged Krags that are good 'part donors', but, I think a lot of collectable and correct Krags or just some nice 'shooters' are being destroyed by 'Scrappers'.

I think the Krags that are 'disappearing' are most hurting potential New Collectors, Hunters, and Informal Shooters. This is bad for our Hobby down the road.

[psteinmayer]

Amen to that. Really burns my donkey!!!

I saw this sight and the stock (which is being sold with the handguard, trigger guard, butt plate, saddle ring, and barrel band intact) posted on the Krag page on FB, and in my opinion, he's asking wayyyy too much. The handguard is cracked, the wrist has a crack forming, and there are other issues with finish and such. Likewise, the sight looks nice, but what's lying under the surface?

[butlersrangers]

Apparently, someone needed it and bought it for $795.

It is now marked as "SOLD"!

What do I know?

[butlersrangers]

Some one got a better deal on a model 1896 carbine rear-sight, tonight, on GunBroker.

For $79 less, someone got a carbine sight in better condition.

As a bonus, it was attached to a real carbine barrel, a model 1899 carbine stock, and a model 1898 action made in 1902.

It is likely a 'fake carbine', has an incorrect sight screw and is missing its Safety-Lever, but, still a nice looking 'shooter' with some valuable parts.

I made a bid, but, it soon went above what I wished to pay. (I just wanted the Stock, although it had sling-swivels).

I hope it went to a good home!

[Kerz]

Dang! I'm amazed at the price of that sight!

I'd like like to have a shooter carbine, but wow the prices they are going for.

Vic

[psteinmayer]

I'd love one too... but there's no way in the world I'd afford one unless I win the lottery!

Interestingly enough, you never see a carbine at one of the CMP matches... although I can't imagine why since it would be easier to handle with the shorter barrel and lighter weight.