Krag Collectors Association Forum

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

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.

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

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!

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.

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.

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.