Another 1898 Krag

[J.Cro79]

Hi my name is James. Can someone tell me something about my rifle? I’m a newb. I’ve been reading for days but I think I’m more in the dark now than when I started. https://photos.app.goo.gl/svytGmB1aWdiSKBE9

[Culpeper]

Welcome to the greatest Krag forum this side of crispy, fried bacon (that would be heaven), James.

Yours is a Model 1898 rifle, serial number 431123, with a cut down stock. The barrel has not been cut down so I am thinking it is the original length. The Krag Rifle Story Ed. 2 does not show that serial number in the research of Misters Mallory and Olson. There may may a couple of little things wrong with it like the front sight blade may be a replacement. But all in all you have a fun rifle for deer and chipmunk hunting or target shooting. We will be expecting a range report at some time.

Buy yourself a case of ammo and have at it. Most if not all Krag owners reload their brass so you should look into the tools to do that. There is plenty of info here for that too.

Culpeper

[Dick Hosmer]

How long IS the barrel? Certainly doesn't look to be 30" to me. Carbines were 22", but no carbines were made with 1898 receivers anywhere near that number. Measure from face of closed bolt to muzzle. What is highest number on sight leaf - 20, or 23?

[butlersrangers]

'J.Cro79' - Welcome to the KCA Forum. I don't believe your Krag is complicated in the least.

It is a U.S. model 1898 rifle that had the stock shortened by a civilian for hunting convenience.
The 30-inch barrel has also cut-down and the front sight-base has been neatly re-attached.

The sight-blade is commercial and your rear-sight is a model 1901 rifle sight.

Krag rifle, serial number 431123, was assembled at Springfield Armory, around January, 1903.

It probably got into civilian hands around 1925 to 1932.