1899 carbine with odd barrel

[RedLeg0811]

Hi all,

I have a Krag 1899 carbine that I have had for a bit, It came from a group of firearms that I got from an older friend of mine. I had Rick the Liberian look at it and he thought it was all carbine except the barrel. I didn't think the barrel was a carbine barrel either as it has an 03 front sight. I would like to figure out the story with this carbine. I am not planning on selling it, but would like to know an estimated value for my records. Also would someone please be able to look up in the SRS for 226798.

My library for Krags is limited currently. I have the Poyer book and would like to get Col Brophy's book as I have his 03 book, but have other priorities for the cash currently.

I forgot to add I would like to replace the screw on the sight with the correct thumb screw.

Thanks
Martin

[RedLeg0811]

[RedLeg0811]

[RedLeg0811]

[madsenshooter]

I'm not sure about the barrel, length is needed, measured from bolt face to crown with a rod. As for your elevation locking screw, one from a 1903, which is easier to find will work. Sarco has them for $5.95. Someone will likely come along and give you some direction on installation.

[RedLeg0811]

I was thinking of doing just that and getting an 03 locking screw.

Thanks

[butlersrangers]

'RedLeg0811' - Welcome to the KCA Forum.

No SRS match. The closest numbers are 226756 (model 1899 carbine sold to Northwestern Military Academy 09/10/1938) and 226812 (model 1899 carbine sold to Squadron 'A', NYNG 02/24/1909).

A reproduction 'slide lock-screw' can be purchased from S&S Firearms, Glendale, N.Y. (catalog viewable on-line) for $12.50.

Your barrel appears to be a Krag barrel. Krag carbine and rifle barrels have the same taper. The only dimension that is helpful in identifying 'carbine origin' is the 22 inch length already mentioned. (If your barrel is longer than 22", it is a shortened rifle barrel. If it is 22" or less, its origin could be a carbine barrel or a rifle barrel).

Your barrel was 'stepped' at the muzzle to accept the 1903 Springfield front sight base. The barrel crown and finish on the sight are below Armory quality, so it is not one of the 'so called' NRA/DCM carbines made at Benicia Arsenal.

I believe your hand-guard is a nice repro and the sight screws look like reproductions or re-finished.

You have a very nice original carbine stock with a 1901 'cartouche'. I would estimate the value of your Krag at around $550 to $650.

[RedLeg0811]

Thanks Butlersrangers,

I forgot to add the top of the butt plate has NJ stamped in it. I am guessing maybe New Jersey National Guard, but I don't know if it would just have NJ or NJNG?

My thought is it was a shot out or corroded barrel and was replaced. When I had the site off the tapped and threaded job didn't seem up to armory specs either. I am trying to remember if I saw a "C" on the site. I will measure the barrel, but I am pretty sure it is not a Krag carbine barrel.

I had the same thought on the hand guard due to the texture and the difference in color tone.

Would it be worth it to have it rebarreled with a carbine barrel. Or would the money be better spent else where?

[butlersrangers]

'RedLeg0811': I added more information to my previous post.

It is very likely that "N.J." marked butt-plate is for New Jersey National Guard.

Be advised, however, that your model 1899 carbine, #226798, was likely built in August to November of 1899. It was probably accepted for service in 1899. It is improbable the stock it now has, with a 1901 'acceptance cartouche', is its original stock.

It is likely your carbine was updated or refurbished at some point. The serviceable parts, 'wood' and 'metal', were not kept together during the armory rebuilding process.

Most Krags are not as they left Springfield the first time.

[RedLeg0811]

So other than the locking screw, probably better to just shoot it as is?