My Model1898 has a "straight" knurled cocking piece rather than a "knob".  I originally thought it was modified but have since seen pics of others.  Any knowledge on what rifles had this feature?  Hope the pic shows up.

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Quick response which hopefully answers your question: Too lazy to look up the exact time span, other than it was roughly 9 months during 1900 (225000 - 250000 or so) during which time that cocking piece was used on new production rifles and carbines. Years ago, before Mallory & Brophy, it was though to be "correct" only on M1899 carbines, but that was proven false. Interesting but not rare, and, having caused more problems than it solved, use was dropped.

The 'knob-less striker rod' was intended to reduce cost, but, proved more expensive to make. It also sacrificed protection from gas, if a pierced primer occurred.

Thanks for the responses.  This rifle is a 1903 build so the bolt's probably not original.  Someone ground down the front area of the bolt sleeve to make clearance for the Lyman receiver sight.  They also put her in a modern Bishop stock.  Sort of like putting heels on Daisy Duke.  Wait, that actually sounds pretty good.  Anyway, she is a candidate for a new barrel and a CMP legal configuration.