Hi all,

I have a Springfield model 1898, serial #321---. I have read much about this rifle, but there seems to be things that could have been modified that may change what this gun was used as and when it was used.  I am trying to obtain some information regarding what rifle this actually is and to get somewhat of a value. I will attach a picture as well.

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Packerbacker71:  Welcome to the KCA forum.  You must be from Wisconsin or the Michigan U.P.  It would appear, your Model 1898 Krag is a cut down Infantry Rifle.  Your serial # is too high for your rifle to be an 1898 carbine.  Later carbines are marked Model 1899.  Your rifle was modified by an owner to make it a more convenient hunting arm.  How long is your barrel (measured with a rod from muzzle to closed bolt face)?  Your stock has been cut just in front of the rear barrel-band.  The pistol grip is an add on.  The original barrel mounted rear sight and wooden hand-guard were removed.  Your 'cocking-piece' (striker-rod) is the short lived 'headless' variety that appeared for a brief time on carbines and rifles.  All of you alterations were privately done after your Krag was sold to the public.  It is still a nice arm for shooting and hunting, but its collector value is destroyed.  Your photo does not allow the front sight or after market rear sight to be identified.  Also, the state of finish on the wood and metal parts cannot be assessed.  Your Krag is probably worth $250 to $300 for utility and salvage value of parts.

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Thanks for the great info. I am from Wisconsin by the way. I have attached a couple of pictures of the sites. The barrel length is 20 3/4.

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Front site

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Packerbacker71:  Badgers!  We don't need no stinking Badgers.  (Could not help myself).
  Your rear sight is a Leroy Rice commercial sight.  Your front sight blade may be home-made from a coin.  Good ole Bambi getter.

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Great info and photographs.