Cut down Model 1894 s.n. 4881

[drweiler]

Cut down Model 1894 s.n. 4881
Just acquired this 24" barrel short rifle, shown next to Model 1896 s.n. 82530. Muzzle mikes close to .626 a quarter inch back from crown. Bayonet fits but muzzle doesn't clear muzzle ring (strange bayonet with lower cross guard ground off and "U.S." scrubbed??? It did not come with the rifle). Any idea if this rifle was cut down for military service? Cadet? Militia? Front sight blade is considerably thinner as well. Stock is varnished, no cartouche, faint proof mark. Thanks for any thoughts, Don


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[bearrowland]

Could it be a Constabulary rifle? I know they were shortened rifles.

[Salt Flat]

drweller, I believe you have a nicely done "school rifle". Bannerman and similar companies and government arsenals modified many Krags for school training, parade use, etc. The Phillipine Constabulary rifles are virtually non existant in the U.S.. They have a shorter barrel than your rifle and would be an 1899 type. They also have a step in the barrel to accomodate the bayonet. The bayonet not fitting quite right is also a clue that it is not an "issue" rifle. Compare the sight graduations on your rifles. They are probably the same indicating that the shortening of the barrel was not done by the military. The rifle also could have been shortened just by someone wanting a handier rifle. At any rate it is still a very nice rifle. Salt Flat

[jon_norstog]

Looks like a pretty decent "school gun" to me as well. You will probably never find out who did the work, though. You might try to get an SRS check to see if there are any records for that serial number. A lot of the low-number Krags saw combat use in Cuba.

jn