Springfield Model 1898 Krag .30-40 30” Bolt Rifle & Bayonet Antique
SOLD FOR: $1,655.00
LSB#: LSB250728AG004
Make: Springfield Armory
Model: 1898
Serial Number: 147649
Year of Manufacture: 1898
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. 147649”. The left side of the stock is marked with a VERY faint “JSA 1898” inspector’s cartouche. The rear of the bolt handle is marked “S” and “9”. The barrel band is marked “U”. The Bayonet is marked “U.S.” on the right side and “1898” on the left side.
Barrel Length: 30”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade set into a barrel mounted base. The rear sight is an 1896 ladder sight marked out to 6 on the side of the base and 1-18 on the ladder.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a single piece walnut with a straight grip, Wood upper handguard, square cutout for the bolt handle, finger grooves, barrel band, sling swivels, Bayonet lug with bayonet and a metal buttplate with hinged door for storage. The LOP measures 13 3/8 inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. This stock rates a Very Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi bright and the rifling is slightly worn. There is minor erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 7/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains approximately 80% of its metal finish. There are minor scratches and nicks throughout with some spots of thinning. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition.
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: Bayonet, scabbard, M1887 Leather sling
Our Assessment: This Springfield Model 1898 Krag-Jørgensen is an unaltered U.S. military infantry rifle, manufactured in 1898. This model is fitted with the bayonet lug and comes complete with Bayonet and M1887 leather rifle sling in Very Good condition. Built at Springfield Armory and chambered in .30-40 Krag, it was part of the American military’s first foray into smokeless powder small-bore cartridge rifles. The Krag’s distinctive side-loading magazine and remarkably smooth bolt action earned it a reputation for mechanical excellence, even as its slower rate of fire would eventually be eclipsed by the more modern ‘03 Springfield.
For enthusiasts of American military rifles, or Krag collectors, this example presents a unique opportunity. While no longer in its original configuration, it bridges the gap between military history and practical sporting use. Its history in the Spanish American and Philippine Insurrection should make it attractive to collectors, while the modifications and refinished condition open the door for those seeking a functional and historically rooted shooter. It’s a rifle that continues to serve, more than a century after it first left Springfield Armory.
BF
