I'm new here, just picked up my Grandfather's Krag from my Dad. It's in good condition, but I am confused about where it falls in the history of Krags. It's a constabulary style rifle with the bayonet attachment, but the 1896 date doesn't seem to fit with the 1898 production date I have been reading about. Were there earlier productions of this type? Does anyone have any info on this model? Pictures attached. Thanks.

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John M:  Your Krag "Short Rifle" appears to be an 1896 infantry rifle that was probably altered by W. Stokes Kirk, a Philadelphia Sporting Goods dealer, in the 1920s.  Attached photos show of their offerings in Catalogue No. 27.

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By the way, I think everyone is stumped by the reference to a 'Navy Style' altered Krag.

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I don't know the year of this Catalogue #27.

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The front sight looks like a dead match and that might explain the odd barrel length of 22 3/4". There was no cartouche on the stock, only a number "27". I thought that was a little odd. Any chance this dealer stamped the gun to match the catalog #.    ;D

John M:  I'm sure the number 27 on your Krag is an old U.S. Army or Natl. Guard regimental or rack #.  Where does the number appear?  Photo?

Here's a photo. Very hard to see, just a small number stamp to the right of the trigger guard (rear). My Grandfather was part of the Wisconsin National Guard.

Here's the photo.

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That is likely a stock fitter or inspector's #.

WSK or not, that rifle is really neat.  Just imagine fixing your bayonet to finish off a wounded whitetail.

Yes, she's in great shape. Can't wait to see how she fires.