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Hi all.
I have for a long time wanted to purchase a Krag, and have now the possibility to do so on my hunters license here in Norway. I find that Krags in 6.5x55 are plentiful around here, in good condition, and virtually 'dirt cheap'. However which model should one go for, and which to avoid? What to look for (except the obvious)? Any tips about models/types/years would be appreciated :).
Since you're in Norway, maybe you'll find more help from the members that are also there on this forum: I recently found parts for a Stomperud Krag from one the members there. I am just starting to learn about the Norwegians myself, after someone gifted me the Stomperud barreled receiver. Krag rifles of Norway, Denmark U.S.A. Det frivillige Skyttervesen - DFS.web
Hello MGR! I like the Norwegian Krag - it is I think a stronger action than the US Krag because of improved metallurgy (on newer rifles at least) and because the locking lug and bolt rib both bear on the receiver when the action is closed. For hunting, you do not need a perfect military rifle - in fact, one that has been butchered may be a better choice. What you do not want is noisy stock hardware, such as the "saddle ring" found on older carbines.
My dream Krag would be one of the late model guns made in 8x57, but really the 30-40 with heavy bullets is just fine for American elk in the mountains, where 60 meters is a long shot. Your elk (our moose) are a lot easier to kill than the American elk or Wapiti. They give it up pretty easy so the 6.5 should be just fine.
Good luck!
jn
Long time since we've seen you here Jon...good to hear from you again.
Thank for the reply Jon. Yes, quite a lot of the Krags over here have been used for hunting, some sporterised, some original. Others have been converted to match rifles. One can find all kinds over here. Although I see these old rifles are not popular anymore; the younger hunters / shooters go for the modern high-tech guns. And hunting without a scope seems to be unheard of now. So the Krag price are at the bottom of the scale over here.Quote:
Originally Posted by jon_norstog
All Norwegian Krags seems to be in 6.5x55, and made by Kongsberg. Yes, quite a lot of elk (moose) over here have fallen for these. Once a very popular and accurate caliber and rifle.
An interesting anecdote about the metalurgy in Krags: I read in a book about the Kongsberg weapon factory that during the mid- to late 1800's the factory workers were encouraged to bring with them old leather goods like worn-out shoes, belts and the like, for use in the hardening process of rifle parts :). The leather was packed inside airtight boxes together with the steel parts and heated to the prescribed temperature and time, so obtaining a hardened shell. Of course the result depended heavily on the experience of the specialist workers involved, and perhaps on the quality of the shoes :).
'mgr' - In the U.S.A., we are also seeing younger shooters go for 'High Tech' 'Black' Rifles (and Pistols). Scopes are in demand and 'Iron Sights' are not appreciated by the novices.
Correct, as Issued, military weapons, (especially Krags), command high collector values. 'Master Gun Smith' built sporting rifles bring high prices. But, amateur altered military guns get little interest, except as parts for restoration projects.
Today's North American Hunters seem to avoid traditional arms and cartridges. They go for technology and the 'Latest and Greatest'.
Interest in classics guns seems to be mainly for the 'Old Guys'.
Mgr, hope you're a member of Norwegian Arms Collectors and that Tor Karstensen is doing well.