Springfield Armory 1898 Krag-Jørgensen 30-40 Krag 23″ Bolt Action Rifle C&R
SOLD FOR: $3,125.00
LSB#: LSB250516JB003
Make: Springfield Armory
Model: 1898 Krag-Jørgensen
Serial Number: 466905
Year of Manufacture: 1903 (C&R)
Caliber: .30-40 Krag
Action Type: Bolt Action Rifle with Side Loading Magazine
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “U.S. / MODEL 1898. SPRINGFIELD ARMORY. 466905”. The barrel has no visible original markings remaining due to refinishing. The sight ladder base is marked “3-18” on the right.
Barrel Length: 23”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to a raised base. The rear sight is a V-notch flanked by fli p-up “speed sight” apertures for rapid target acquisition.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a replacement walnut stock in excellent condition with crisp edges and clean checkering at the semi-pistol grip. The stock has a capped pistol grip and smooth handguard. Sling swivels are mounted fore and aft. The fit is snug and secure, with only light handling marks visible. The LOP measures 13.25” from the front of the trigger to the back of the smooth steel buttplate. The stock rates in about Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Refinished Blue
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is defined. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its current metal finish. There is some edge wear at high-contact points, especially around the muzzle and bolt handle. The bolt body shows cycling marks and light plum patina on the knob and around the ejection port. The screw heads are sharp and serviceable. The markings remain legible on the receiver. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine condition as refinished and restocked.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The bolt locks solidly, cycles smoothly, and the magazine cutoff and loading gate operate as designed. The trigger breaks cleanly. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment:
The Springfield Armory Model 1898 Krag-Jørgensen represents a fascinating chapter in U.S. military history, bridging the gap between black powder service rifles and the modern bolt-action era. Adopted at the end of the 19th century, the Krag was America’s first smokeless powder service rifle and featured the distinctive side-loading rotary magazine—a design unique among its contemporaries. Its smooth action and gentle recoil made it a favorite among marksmen, even beyond its official retirement.
This particular rifle has been sporterized, a common fate for surplus Krags throughout the 20th century. It features a newly checkered walnut stock with a capped pistol grip and a shortened 24” barrel, making it lighter and more suitable for hunting or field use. The refinished blue metal and upgraded speed sights show care and intentionality in its conversion. Though not in its original military configuration, this Krag retains its historic action, excellent mechanical function, and unmistakable profile—now tailored for utility rather than parade ground.
For collectors of vintage American bolt-actions or hunters who appreciate historical character, this sporterized Krag offers tremendous charm. It embodies a piece of American innovation and martial history, yet it’s ready for practical use in the field or as a conversation piece in the gun room. Whether you’re looking to shoot, display, or restore further, this Krag-Jørgensen is a fine candidate. So bid high and bid firm. I encourage you to take a look at the condition in our high quality photos. Good luck on your bid. -K.F.
