Model 1898 Krag cut down rifle

[coneten]

I have been enjoying reading past posts about these versions and thought I would just describe one that is in a local shop. 1898 Springfield Armory SN#447535. If Old Guns is correct it makes it 1903 production. The stock is light in color and has a very clear 1903 cartouche and circled P with an 8 stamped above it. The nose of the stock shows the evidence of being rounded and somewhat finished but sanding marks are evident. It has a Model 03 front sight with a blade that is much smaller/shorter than a stock 1903 front sight. The sight band was installed without the Bannerman look..I cannot even see a cross pin but it is pretty well finished. The barrel is crowned, rounded but with a nice sharp edge on the inside diameter. It is 22 inches long. The barrel band is U marked and there is a small brass pin just in front of it. The rear swivel is standard and tightly inletted in place. The rear sight is a 1901 model. Who ever did the cut down did a fine job. The bore is very good..no pitting, lots of shine.

Information

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[jon_norstog]

Cone 10,

That may be a collectible. I have heard that Benicia Arsenal cut down a few rifles for civilian sales. %MF browses this list every few days and he may weigh in on it.

jn

[coneten]

I forgot to mention the smooth butt plate.

[daveboy]

Kinda like this one? What you describe is exactly what I have. It had a commercial rear sight and no handguard on it when purchased. But, I found a 1902 sight and handguard for it. My S/N is 441781 which I believe puts in late 1902 manufacture, which matches the crisp cartouche date.

Attachment 23463

daveboy

[coneten]

daveboy..it's a doppleganger for sure..same hand guard too.

[djb25]

Daveboy... That looks exactly like the Krag I picked up last week. Although mine is missing the handguard and has an 1896 rear sight.