Danish M.89 Krag-Jørgensen Bolt Action 8x58mmR Antique MFD 1893
SOLD FOR: $1,051.00
LSB#: WY241122AS038
Make: Geværfabrikken København
Model: M.89 Krag-Jørgensen
Serial Number: F38574
Year of Manufacture: 1893 (Antique)
Caliber: 8x58mmR Danish Krag
Action Type: Bolt Action, Internal Magazine
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “Geværfabrikken / KJØBENHAVN / M. 89. / 1893.” The barrel shank is marked with the serial number “F38574,” a crown proof, and additional inspection marks. The right side of the receiver is marked with “38 374” matching the serial number. The bolt is marked 28618. Additional proof marks and acceptance stamps are present on various components. There is a plate on the right side of the stock marked “6B 127”.
Barrel Length: 24”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade dovetailed to a raised base. The rear sight is a tangent leaf sight with an elevation slider, marked for distance graduations.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a two-piece walnut military stock with a straight wrist and handguard. There are handling marks, dents, and scratches consistent with service use. The stock has some areas of finish loss, a crack near the receiver, and general wear from age. The LOP measures 13 1/4” from the front of the trigger to the back of the steel buttplate. The stock rates in about Fair overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: The rifle features an internal magazine with a side-mounted loading gate.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright, the rifling is defined. There is moderate visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 6/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 20% of its metal finish. The is a dent in the right side of the barrel tube just in front of the rear side. The balance of the finish shows patina, thinning, and scattered areas of oxidation. The receiver has a mix of gray and brown patina. The screw heads show light tooling but remain serviceable. The markings are clear and legible. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The bolt cycles smoothly, and the trigger breaks cleanly. 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: This rifle includes an original Danish M.89 bayonet with a steel scabbard and leather frog. The bayonet is marked “49B87” on the crossguard and “19589” on the grip. The scabbard shows wear and oxidation, and the leather frog has age-related cracking but remains intact.
Our Assessment: The Danish Model 1889 Krag-Jørgensen was Denmark’s first repeating rifle and one of the earliest Krag designs adopted for military service. Unlike the later American Krags, the M.89 features a unique side-loading gate for its internal magazine, allowing smoother reloading. Manufactured at Geværfabrikken København in 1893, this rifle represents an important step in repeating bolt-action rifle development.
This example is in solid condition for its age, with matching numbers and an included bayonet, making it an excellent piece for collectors of early military bolt-action rifles. The 8x58mmR chambering was a robust cartridge for its time, and this rifle saw service through the early 20th century.
For those interested in antique military firearms, this is a prime example of Danish craftsmanship and early bolt-action evolution. Its historical significance, coupled with its antique status, makes it a desirable addition to any collection. Please see our High Quality photos and good luck with your bids.-C.M.
