Hey y'all. First-time poster here, so be gentle...
My neighbor passed away and his children are having me care for a few of his rifles. They aren't interested in them, so I may make an offer. My neighbor's grandfather fought in the Spanish-American War and brought his Krag back. It is marked "Model 1898." on the receiver with a serial # 199844. I have attached photos below. Any information on this rifle would be a huge help. It is missing the barrel band(s), sling swivel, and butt plate. Barrel length is just over 24.5 inches. Overall length is just short of 44 inches.
Specific questions:
1. Is the stock original (best guesses)? It doesn't seem to match what other Krag Carbines look like to me...
2. Was this rifle originally a carbine, or was it likely converted to one after the War?
3. Would y'all recommend replacing the buttstock and/or barrel band(s)?
4. What is the rarity of this rifle? (I have no intention of selling it if I get my hands on it)
Thanks!