To save you some time, if the serial number is over 140000, don't waste ANY more effort on wondering whether it is "real" or not - it isn't.

If it passes THAT test, then, by all means, please check back with specifics. There were only 5000 M1898 Carbines made at Springfield. A real one (131024) with early short stock (unique to that one model) may be viewed at my website.

MANY, MANY M1898 Rifles have been shortened over the years, for hunting use, and some are now being represented as the scarce carbines.