I had one, a real carbine. Sold it to someone in the prairies about two years ago...
Printable View
I had one, a real carbine. Sold it to someone in the prairies about two years ago...
Two at a local shop. Both dogs but full length, they are both 1898 guns. One priced at $1000 the other at $895. Simpsons LTD had one in New Today that looked decent for the price. Like all this stuff getting tough to find nice ones at a good price.
saw about 6 of them this weekend at the York Pa show only one was all original at 1k. others were sporters from 350 to 700
'03-A3 barrels can be fitted by a gunsmith. CMP sells new barrels. So a bad barrel can be replaced, but nice rifles with nice bores are tough to find.'
I checked 'GunBroker' last night. There were lots of overpriced Krags with 'sketchy' descriptions. IMHO - Many of these Krags will be listed for years.
The problem with re-barreling a Krag, whether using a re-chambered 1903 Springfield barrel or a Criterion (carbine or rifle) Krag barrel, is that you easily invest more money than the 'restored' Krag is worth. Only go this route if it meets your needs and you plan on keeping it. It is no longer 'collectable' and you can't get your money out of it.
I believe, we are in a period when functional, but, well used Krag rifles are slow sellers. (Nice 'museum pieces' are in demand and always will command a premium).
Promising 'shooters' do show up at U.S. gun shows. Gun show 'finds' allow close inspection and negotiation.
Regrettably, some operators on ebay are 'parting out' utility Krags at an alarming rate.
My advice: Go to shows early & often, have money, have knowledge, have a clearly defined goal, and negotiate!
Butler an Browning are 100% correct. put time an effort in you will find what you want. Do not over look the small table dealers either. You would be shocked what these guys find or have hidden.
Full length Krag went for $1100 at auction today. I didn't look at it closely but it appeared from where I sat to be well used. No sling.
saw alot of sporters today even a krag carbine chopped up. way to high for my blood all were 350.00
In Louisville this past weekend I saw a few. One 1898 $550 for a in the white, no blue, obvious steel wool treatment. Good sight, cracked upper HG, nice 1899 cartouche.
I came close but passed on it. This one may end up getting parted out. :ugh:
Another, 1898 looked straight, $850.00, and another for $1,100.00