Krag--what do I have

[butlersrangers]

'gunsaholic': Your Norwegian Krag does appear to be a correct Model 1895 Kavalerikarabin. I believe 1899 is the year of manufacture and #1003 the serial number.

I am more familiar with later Norwegian Krags that have the date and a Crown with stylized "K" (for Kongsberg Vapenfabrikk) on the receiver ring. Usually, the serial number is on the left side of the receiver ring, and also on the barrel, the bolt handle root (IIRC) and some digits on other small parts. It appears this later practice may have been different when your carbine was made.

According to Sigurd Halverson, who did Chapter 16 on Norwegian arms, in Brophy's, 'The Krag Rifle', the 1899 production of carbines were serialed from #851 to 2,350, (stamped on the right side of the receiver bridge).

It appears to me, you have some type of commercial sling swivel mounted on the front of your trigger guard. There should be a hole there, but, it was for a military 'quick-detachable swivel', I believe. Also, there is wood filler in the openings in your stock behind the pistol grip, that are for a peculiar 'stud/ring' and its retaining screw. The military sling was anchored to this with a 'snap-hook'.

Photo attached of said piece of hardware - PM me if you are interested, I have one.