Greetings-

I have a 1901 30-40 Krag that I'm curious about its value, and any information on it. Its serial number is 295599. It's probably shot less than a box of shells. It still has a nifty brass muzzle/sight cover. It has a little light rust here and there and a few minor dings in the stock.

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A very very nice rifle, which does not appear to have had anything done to it than a rear sight upgrade, which was a common occurance, hardly worthy of note. I'd put value at around $1500, maybe more.

banjodave:  That is a wonderful looking Model 1898 Krag Rifle.  I hope the bore is as good as the outside of your rifle.  Your rifle was probably built in December 1900.  The "headless" cocking piece is probably correct on your rifle, and unusual.  Your rear sight is the model 1902 and probably a correct 'update'.  If the interior is as niece as the exterior, I'd value your Krag at $1250 to $1750.  IMHO

Belongs in a museum, IMO, very nice example and unbelievably clean furniture and metal. Maybe not the most valuable model, but certainly the top end value of that particular model. They just don't get much nicer, enjoy!

Absolutely agree!  Beautiful!!! 

banjodave:  Tanker is correct in that your Krag is museum quality.  I hate to say this -- 'Safe Queen'!  Your rifle should not be taken to the Range for shooting.  It shows the nuances of finish that were present when a Krag left the arsenal but soon disappeared with nomal use and exposure to the elements.  I'd enjoy knowing the story of how your Krag escaped normal use and wear.

My wife's dad had it given to him probably in the late 50's or early 60's by a rich doctor friend. He took it to his brother's ranch to deer hunt once. I'm not sure he even shot it. I know he didn't bag a deer. He was not really a hunter. Anyway, it has languished in our closet in a nice rifle case for decades. Please advise me on what to do to check the light rust without messing up its original condition. Much obliged for the input. One last thing I didn't mention. It has fancily J.S.A 1900 stamped on the stock.

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banjodave:  Dang that's a beautiful 1898 Krag.  The 'cartouch' stamp in the wood is the inspection acceptance (into service) mark.  "J.S. Adams  1900".  I would wipe the light surface rust with soft flannel cloth saturated with Hoppe's #9 Nitro-powder solvent.  This is a deep penetrating oil and often does the trick on light surface rust.  I would be reluctant on this pristine rifle to use anything more abrasive.  I would protect the metal with RIG (rust inhibiting grease) applied with a lamb's wool RIG pad.

banjodave:  Thanks for sharing photos of your beautiful Model 1898 Krag.  You made my day a bit more fun!  You should get yourself a copy of Mallory & Olson's "Krag Rifle Story" (out of print but shows up on eBay) to compliment your fine Krag.  I've attached a Michigan National Guard picture, circa 1903, to show the use most 1898 Krags received.

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Wow that is truly a diamond in the rough!  My 1902 with a 1901 rear sight has dings, gouges, and pretty much devoid of bluing.    Mine is looking lived in.