Springfield1896 Krag Carbine

[LHC1692]

I bought a beautiful Krag carbine a few years ago and I recently pulled it out to compare to a friend’s 1896 Krag Carbine. My cartouche is clearly stamped 1896. My stock has the original saddle ring and bar. The barrel length is correct, 22”. My serial number is 32,2XX which falls into the 1896 carbine data sheets. All metal has similar patina and appears to be matching in age and wear. Rear stock has the P mark and also the initials G.C. Next to the proof mark.

Unfortunately, I am only realizing just now that my rear sight and sight base is not marked with a “C”. This troubles me, now that I’ve done some reading about about the rear sights.

Does anyone have any explanation of why it’s not marked with a “C”?
Thanks

Information

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[browningautorifle]

Does anyone have any explanation of why it’s not marked with a “C”?

Yes, it's a rifle sight. Look how much they're worth and you'll see why someone would pilfer it off. Then the next guy had to restore it with what he could find.

Love to see pics...

[LHC1692]

Here are pictures.
Imgur: The magic of the Internet

[browningautorifle]

I was going to ask if it was marked on the other side of the base at back but the ladder isn't marked either...so... I think it's a rifle sight.

[butlersrangers]

The OP's carbine is definitely now wearing a model 1896 rifle sight. The sight-screws are incorrect replacements.

I think BAR has described a likely scenario as to why the original sight was pilfered.

A loose model 1896 carbine sight is very hard to find and will cost $500 to $600. The 1896 rifle rear-sight is common and routinely sells for $50 to $60.

Proper Krag sight-screws, original or reproduction, would look better and cost about $20.

[browningautorifle]

I thought I'd transfer the pics here for perpetuity. Here's the OPs carbine sights.

[LHC1692]

I appreciate everyone’s input and finally getting the answers to my question. If anyone could suggest a source for the correct 1896 sight marked with a “C” section , I’d really appreciate it. I don’t want to spend the rest of my life looking for one. This early serial 1896 carbine deserves to be made right for the next custodian.
Mike

[browningautorifle]

To be honest, if you watch Ebay you'll see them appear. Butlersrangers has a couple other sites you might look into, he'll tell you shortly.

[butlersrangers]

Be patient and, in the meantime, get the correct sight-screws.

Things have a way of showing up.

When gun shows become a reality again, keep your eyes open for one.

Watch ebay and gunbroker. The Krag Collectors Association forum have a couple of parts vendors listed in 'classifieds'.

Look at messed-up 'sportered' Krags. A carbine sight could be hiding on an Old 'Deer Rifle'.

[a64hoo]

I have an 1896 mfg. in 1897 same problem it has a newer rear sight my serial no. falls in the 1897 group for carbines all other markings and equipment are correct for a model 1896 cavalry rifle.This rifle was my grand fathers and carried in the Spanish American war I also have his saddle holster,it has been in my family since 1890 when came home from Cuba.He was a Capt. in the artillery and would have been mounted in those days.