Unit marking on stock?

[coneten]

I have a chance to buy a Model 1898 Krag rifle and was wondering if any one might know something about the stamping on the right side of butt stock. C over SF over 10 over 10. The letters are block font and the C is larger. One other thing. The stock is lighter in color, with some figure and seems to have a drier finish than the darker walnut I am used to seing on Krag rifles.. There is no P stamp under the stock. The inspector stamp is present but the date is difficult to read. I got to thinking that this might be Italian walnut and am going to get the SN# later this evening. BTW, the kit is still present in the butt trap.

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[coneten]

The SN# 84488 puts it at 1897. It probably not an Italian walnut stock I guess.

[andiarisaka]

84488 should be a model 1896 rifle. It is still possible that the stock is Italian walnut. A model 98 stock can be modified to accept a model 96 action. I've got a shortened IW stock near me here that has been so modified. Get the magnifying glass out and look at that cartouche rotating it around in the sunlight, perhaps you'll be able to make it out then. IW stocks started appearing around 1899, I believe. Some pics would be helpful. Afraid I can't help you with the stamping though.