I figured cast would be a much better way to go. I have done a little research with the Krag as I find it's a fascinating design-to me anyway-but, then again, I'm rather intrigued by pretty much any milsurp rifle...especially U.S. rifles. I do handload for several calibers (probably about 25), so using lead in rifles won't be much of an adjustment other than having to flare the mouth of the case. I'll very likely purchase Lyman's 49th reloading manual since I know it has a TON of cast load profiles in there. I also read several places about a fella named C.E. Harris and "The Load" and the "Universal Load." Those sounded like great ways for me to pass the time at my local range.
The Krag isn't the only thing I'll take possession of upon my return. I'll also get to fondle a 1944 Savage Enfield, a CMP Garand (5.8M rcvr, SA, Service Grade), Springfield 1903 (1944 HS rebarrel), two Mosins (1943 Sako M39 and 1939 Tula 91/30), and a K31 :D
Needless to say, I can't wait. If I can make this work correctly, I'll put up a couple of pictures of the "carfle"
These are some pics my Dad sent after he picked up the rifle (unbeknownst to me at the time-what a guy, right?) If I've gathered info correctly, the sights are 1901 style, and that stock may be an aftermarket, or at least sanded. I couldn't see any cartouches anywhere, it's also been refinished, and probably not shot for quite some time judging by the haze rust inside the receiver. But, whoever cut it down did a decent job with the front sight from what I can tell, and turned this into a nice handy little carbine. I'll be overjoyed to take it home
