Looking for help. 1898 carbine??

[Sunshineboys]

I am looking at a US Krag rifle. It is in carbine configuration and the seller tells me it is an 1898 Carbine serial number 428285. From the small amount of info I have it appears that serial number is not a carbine. Can someone help? Dave

[butlersrangers]

Dave - The high serial number would suggest this is a cut-down rifle or a 'parts-carbine' some civilian put together.

Some photographs would help with analysis.

"1898 carbines" are the most faked Krag.

[Sunshineboys]

I am looking at a US Krag rifle. It is in carbine configuration and the seller tells me it is an 1898 Carbine serial number 428285. From the small amount of info I have it appears that serial number is not a carbine. Can someone help? Dave

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[Whig]

A wolf in sheep's clothing? The one picture looks like a carbine stock but the serial number cannot be a Model 1898 carbine. Authentic Model 1898 carbines usually run in the serial number range around 118,000 - 134,000.

Could be an authentic Model 1898 or Model 1899 carbine stock with a Model 1902 rear rifle sight. Need more pictures and info please. It's always interesting to see what people are selling and how they are advertising them, right or wrong!

[Dick Hosmer]

Obviously NOT an 1898 carbine, and . . .

I'll go one step further and say that I don't believe that is even a genuine SA stock. Funky bolt notch, too-narrow grasping grooves, and ZERO patina/age to the wood. Looks like it was "assembled" very recently.

[butlersrangers]

Is this Krag wearing a "Prestige" (Canadian made) replacement stock and handguard?

A good clear photo of the barrel's muzzle-area, (crown and front-sight attachment), will usually reveal if a Krag has an original carbine barrel.

The barrel-band spring may be an 03A3 Springfield part.

[Sunshineboys]

Thanks for the replies here. I thought myself that the stock looked new. I also thought it interesting that the photos show what the seller wants us to see. Also, seeing an advertisement with so few particulars tells a story in itself. No condition of the bore. No indication if the seller ever fired it. No photo showing the front sight in detail……and…….since I have asked for some specifics he is not replying. He also gives no indication of his location! Canada is a big place and shipping has become so expensive. So we all feel the same about this. I really do thank you all for your ideas. Dave
PS….finally received a reply…stock is a new prestigious stock made in Canada. Owner advised he was getting 5” groups at 100 yards. Ha! I believe nothing now. I passed on it.