Springfield Model 1898 Krag Carbine .30-40 22” Bolt Action Rifle 1900 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,525.00
LSB#: LSB251101BH001
Make: Springfield
Model: 1898 Krag Carbine.
Serial Number: 237252
Year of Manufacture: 1900
Caliber: .30-40 Krag
Action Type: Bolt Action, Fed by Side Mounted Magazine
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “U.S. / MODEL 1898. SPRINGFIELD ARMORY. 237252”.
Barrel Length: Approximately 22 Inches..
Sights / Optics:The front sight is a blade dovetailed to the barrel mounted base. There is a small “C” stamp on the left side of the front sight. The rear sight is a ladder sight marked out to 4 on the side of the base and 20 on the ladder.
Stock Configuration & Condition This rifle has a two-piece wood short-version 1896 carbine stock with a straight grip, square cutout for the bolt handle, finger grooves, Carbine version barrel band, and a metal buttplate with hinged door for storage. There is a set of sling loops. The wood shows light scrapes, scratches and compression marks. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13 1/4 inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttstock. This stock rates in about Fine overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright but the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. This writer would rate the bore at 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 85% of its metal finish. The remaining spots of finish have turned to patina. There are multiple nicks and scratches along the barrel. The action has light wear. The screw heads show very light use. The markings are mostly clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine condition as a C&R.
Mechanics: The action functions as intended. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Springfield Krag-Jørgensen was America’s first smokeless powder service rifle, adopted in 1892 and serving through the Spanish-American War before being replaced by the 1903 Springfield. The Krag stood out for its innovative side-loading magazine, which allowed soldiers to top off rounds without disabling the rifle, a feature unique among bolt-actions of its era. The M1898 carbine, with its 22-inch barrel, was the standard issue for cavalry and mounted troops, offering lighter weight and handier balance compared to the full-length rifle. Manufactured in 1900, this example falls firmly into the C&R category and represents one of the most historically significant American carbines of the late 19th century. This rifle shows significantly less wear than expected. The carbine stock retains its correct hardware and sling bar, showing relatively minor scattered dents, scratches, rating in Fine condition. The metal finish has thinned, with about 85 percent of its finish remaining and a deep patina throughout, consistent with its age and service life. The bore shows very light wear, with some erosion that brings it down to a 7 out of 10, but the mechanics remain functional with the smooth action that Krags are known for. For collectors, the 1898 Krag carbine is one of the more desirable U.S. military arms of the era, particularly because carbines were produced in much smaller numbers than rifles and saw harder service in the field. Only 5000 of the 1898 Krag Carbines were produced. It represents a piece of American history tied directly to the frontier and the Spanish-American War period, and it remains a must-have for collectors of U.S. military arms or antique cavalry carbines. Please see our detailed photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!!! -C.M.
