Quote:

"By Mar. 14, 1896, Col. Mordecai stated that 10,000 carbines were "in hand" and manufacture of the necessary Model 1896 carbine sights was well underway.  This statement conflicts with the official production figures, which show that only 7,111 carbines were produced during the fiscal year ending June 30, 1896." Mallory and Olson, "The Krag Rifle Story," Page 65

The 7,111 were immediately followed by just under 3,000 more which show up in the next fiscal year's report.  The serials from all 10,000 are more or less a solid block.  They didn't make parts for 7,000 and then 3,000 -  "10,000 carbines were "in hand"' as Mordecai stated. 

So Mallory wasn't infallible.  Somehow I don't think that would have surprised him.


Quote:

But it upsets me when I am looking for honest opinions

In my considered opinion you are not.   

The serial in question makes it a notable piece.  It'll receive additional scrutiny over a run of the mill gun.  Why that would surprise you is a mystery.

Note that, upon seeing the serial, the first thing I did was advise you that the serial was listed in Mallory's book.  I then gave a valid view of the parts I could observe from the few pictures.  From my perspective you received valid advice.  Given that you were the one asking it's not surprising that my response to your questioning of the bits you do not like isn't something that'll please you.  Keep asking until you get an answer you like.  You will not get that from me.

Cheers.