Springfield M1896 Krag–Jørgensen 30” .30-40 Bolt Action Rifle, 1897 Antique
SOLD FOR: $1,100.00
LSB#: LSB260219HJ001
Make: Springfield Armory
Model: M1896 Krag–Jørgensen
Serial Number: 98062
Year of Manufacture: 1897 / Antique
Caliber: .30-40 Krag
Action Type: Bolt action, internal 5 round side-loading magazine.
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “U.S. Model 1896. Springfield Armory. 98062”. The barrel band is marked, “U” The stock has a “P” proof on the wrist. The inspector’s cartouche is not present. The bayonet is marked, “US / 1895”.
Barrel Length: 30”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade post pinned into a barrel mounted base. The rear sight is a 1896 Type 3 U-notch sliding escalator/ladder marked out to 18.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The rifle has a two piece refinished walnut stock with a capped forend/bayonet lug & stacking ring, barrel band w/ sling loop, finger grooves, straight wrist, straight comb, sling loop, and steel buttplate with a trapdoor. There are scratches and pressure dents throughout along with small chips. There are no cracks. The LOP measures 13 3/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates at about Very Good + overall condition as refinished.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright and the rifling is mostly pronounced. There is moderate erosion and spots of pitting throughout. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates 7/10 as an Antique.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 60% of its metal finish. There is moderate thinning and patina throughout along with scratches and light rust freckling. There are several large swaths of cold blue throughout. The action has moderate to heavy wear and patina. The screw heads are light to moderately tooled. The markings are somewhat blurry and faded in spots. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine condition as an antique. The bayonet is in Good condition with heavy patina and wear. The blade has moderate patina.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. 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: Leather sling, M1892 bayonet, brass muzzle tampion.
Our Assessment: The Springfield Model 1896 Krag-Jorgensen represents one of the earliest U.S. military bolt-action rifles designed for smokeless powder service, marking a significant transition from earlier black powder arms. Adopted in the 1890s, the Krag system is distinguished by its exceptionally smooth bolt operation and unique side-loading magazine, which allowed cartridges to be inserted without opening the action. Produced at Springfield Armory, this 1897 example reflects early production of the Model 1896 during a period when the U.S. military was refining its approach to modern infantry rifles. Chambered in .30-40 Krag, introduced in 1892, the rifle offered improved ballistic performance and reliability, seeing service in conflicts such as the Spanish-American War. This antique example presents in fine condition for its age, retaining approximately 60 percent of its refinished metal surfaces with moderate thinning, patina, and scattered light oxidation. The bore is semi-bright with mostly pronounced rifling, though moderate erosion and pitting are present, consistent with use and period ammunition. The walnut stock has been refinished and remains in very good plus condition, showing light to moderate handling wear with scratches, dents, and small chips, while remaining structurally sound with no cracks. The rifle retains its Model 1896 rear sight and classic full-length configuration, including the trapdoor buttplate. Areas of cold blue touch-up are visible on the metal, reflecting maintenance or restoration during its lifetime.
The Model 1896 Krag-Jorgensen stands as a key step in the evolution of U.S. military firearms, bridging the gap between 19th century rifle design and the more advanced bolt-action systems that followed. This example reflects both its early production origins and extended service life, offering a well-preserved representation of a historically significant rifle. With its included leather sling, Model 1892 bayonet, and brass muzzle tampion, it presents as a complete and evocative example of an antique U.S. service rifle from the turn of the century. -R.E.