new Krag!

[Dick Hosmer]

Hooks go back to the Civil War at the very least. First was a single hook in the middle, made of round stock, next (1873?) came the pair but of very thin metal, next (1890?) were the claws as shown, which lasted at least into the Korean War. The sequence is correct but the dates are NOT exact. This should clarify that the sling shown absolutely COULD be contemporary to the rifle.

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[browningautorifle]

COULD

Yup...but what are the odds...

[kotkinjs1]

Yup...but what are the odds...

That's why I'm trying to decipher MNG and G 33 to see if there's any connection. Taking a leap, the MNG could be Michigan Natl Guard; I found a source saying "The [Michigan] regiments organized in the spring of 1898 were designated the 31st, 32nd, 33rd, and 34th Michigan Volunteer Infantry." That would then match the 33 on the sling. The Michigan units that took part in the battles early in the campaign in Cuba were issued Springfield Trapdoors. But Michigan troops that later went to Puerto Rico & Cuba were eventually issued Krags, circa 1903.

[butlersrangers]

Michigan units did not keep the arms issued to them for actions and service in Cuba and Puerto Rico.

Michigan State Troops, eventually named "National Guard", had a brief period when they were issued model 1899 Remington-Lee rifles in .30-40 caliber, (approximately 1899 to 1903). These were purchased by the State of Michigan. I believe some were marked " MNG".

Around 1903, Michigan "Militia" units began using Krag rifles provided by the U.S. Government. (These would remain in use till about 1913).

There may be a 'gray era' when Michigan units retuned to their pre-Spanish War single digit numbers, but, eventually the 31st, 32nd, 33rd, 34th, and 35th were used.

Eight great states start with the letter "M". Michigan N.G. is one possibility for your Krag, but, seven others are likely just as valid!