I am confused. 

I have a Krag Saddle Ring carbine with SN 285xx.  The surface of the receiver is stamped with "1895".  My research tells me there is no such thing as a US Model 1895 Springfield Krag carbine.

Based on my serial number and according to   (You need to Login, my carbine was made between July 1, 1895 and July 1, 1896.

According to   (You need to Login, there were M1892 and M1896 carbines, but nothing is mentioned of a M1895 carbine.

Can you see why I am confused? Can you help?

Also, some where in the carbines history, someone has scratched "19" (or "79"?) and "P4" into the receiver.  Does anyone have any idea what these scratchings may signify?

Thanks!

Sadly, and unluckily enough, you probably consulted the two worst - for the novice - sources of info extant. You deserve better - Wikipedia is what it is - ANYONE can post anything they want, fact or fiction, but the SA site could be much improved.

The first Krags produced were the 1892 rifles - they then made a run of carbines, to be known as the Model 1896, since enough changes had been made to justify a new designation. Just two (2) Model 1892 carbines were made - never buy one; both are in museums. They have full-length stocks.

The first production run of M1896 carbines starts around 24600 - they can be marked three (3) ways: "1895", "1896" (the scarcest), and "Model 1896", the most common. Yours sounds completely proper as to date & number.

If in nice condition and unaltered, it has signifcant value to a collector.

Several carbines are known with the crude "P numbers" you describe, but I cannot recall where the matter was discussed. I do not believe any answer was given, but the marking itself is not unique to yours.

Hope that helps.

Thanks for the response, Dick!  I really appreciate your help.

Will try to post a photo or two in a few days.