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Cut Down 1898 US Krag Rifle Information
Hello,
I recently purchased a model 1898 carbine;(I believe it was a rifle cut down) and was hoping to get a little information on it. the S/N is 1946XX the cartouche says 1898 with the initials C.A. just forward it. It has the 1901 type rear sight, front and rear sling swivels (I apologize if I get any terms incorrect), and the 1903 Springfield front sight band and blade. The finish is about 70-75% and the bore is bright and shiny; one of the main reasons I bought it. Shoots Sierra 175gr MK like a dream! I read that after the 1903 was adopted. The DCM and NRA cut down Krag rifles to carbine type to sell to the public. Is that accurate? I realize these don't command the value and desire of the "true" carbines but any information or history on them would be greatly appreciated. Thanks..
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08-06-2018 08:27 PM
# ADS
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Since anyone with a bit of skill could 'cut-down' a Krag rifle and alter it to the "DCM/NRA - Carbine" configuration, a 'real one' can not be identified for certain, without original DCM shipping-paperwork or 'bill of sale'.
IIRC - these DCM Krags, altered for 'Sporting Purposes', were altered and shipped from Benicia Arsenal, near San Francisco, in the 1920's.
These rifles initially utilized model 1899 carbine stocks, until the supply of carbine stocks ran out. Then, rifle stocks, were shortened to carbine stock length and the exposed channel in the stock tip was plugged.
FWIW - The workmanship on a Benicia altered "DCM carbine" should be first rate. A lot of 'cut-down' Krags lack skilled crowning of the barrel muzzle and fitting of the 1903 front-sight.
I noticed you also posted on the KCA Forum.
The "CA" stamp on your stock is not exactly known. One belief is that various 'Letter Combinations' and stamps were used to identify the Depot or Arsenal, that did the work of Rebuilding or Reconditioning Arms, in the preparation period before WW1.
To me, these odd markings are a bit of a head scratcher. The exact meaning begs to be documented. They appear to date from after Krag production ceased at Springfield Armory, 1903-1904.
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Maybe you could post a pic of the entire rifle?
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The Following 3 Members Say Thank You to concretus For This Useful Post:
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Thanks for the input!...
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I think it would be a sweet hunter, but then I'm prejudiced towards them...
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What butlersrangers said is accurate. I have a model 1898 that was modified by the Benicia Armory and have the original bill of sale from the U.S. War Dept. dated 1929. It states that it was modified with a carbine barrel and a model 1903 front sight and was sold to Mr. A. Arata of Berkley, Calif an " NRA member " for $3.50. I have an additional letter/invoice from 1930 where Mr. Arata purchased 100 rounds of ammo for $ 3.15. The letterhead on both invoices say War Department, Director of civilian marksmanship. I should clarify that the invoice states " cut to carbine length ". So, it's not a real carbine in the eyes of a collector but it is according to the DCM in 1929. I also would like to know the value of this orphan with the paperwork proving it's provenance. It's in really nice shape but Agent Orange has taken it's toll on me and I can no longer shoot so it's time to let it go to someone who will appreciate it.
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'Charlie 33' - Photos of your DCM/NRA 'carbine' would be interesting and educational. A documented one is very rare!
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