It is never Easy!

Franklin Mallory identified the Krag tool as the "Model 1894 Screwdriver", based on an 1895 Springfield Armory drawing.

IMHO - It is the same tool later sources (and collectors) call a "Model 1897 Screwdriver". To add to the confusion, occasionally a Krag Screwdriver will be seen that appears "armory-misassembled", (in terms of the side the 'drift-pin' is on).

Mallory pointed out that the 1894/1897 screwdriver does not seem to fit the McKeever Cartridge Box. (Which begs the question, where was it carried? In your Sergeant's 'haversack' with the 'pocket-watch shaped oiler')?

The tool actually can be put in the McKeever Box, but, it is not held very securely. The 'drift-pin' on the Krag screwdriver prevents it from sitting very deeply and it easily falls out.

Mallory speculated that possibly the Model 1868 Screwdriver and/or another ... "earlier, simpler two- or three-bladed screwdriver was used in these boxes".

My Model 1876 Combination Tool fits very properly in both my .45-70 and .30-40 McKeever Boxes. (Note - The Model 1879 Tool does not seem intended to be carried in the McKeever Box).

(A word of caution: S&S Firearms sells a $30 repro. of the '1897 Tool' and bogus/modified 1903 Springfield Tools are often listed on Ebay as "Krag Tools").

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