My Dad left me some firearms a couple year ago and am just getting around to caring for them.  I recently disassembled an M1 Garand and cleaned and greased it.  Today I decided to do the same to my Krag.  Right off though I can't get the bolt all the way back.  it stops about three quarters of an inch shy.  I've messed with it for sometime now and can't figure it out.  Any help would be really appreciated.  Talked to a couple friends who say they have Krags also and want to go shooting with them.

Howdy,  Welcome to the forum and to the wonderful world of Krags!

Are we talking all the way back in the receiver, as if you were trying to chamber a round, or are you talking about bolt removal?  If it stops 3/4 inch from it's full rearward movement, then check carefully for an obstruction.  The Krag is one of the smoothest actions ever devised, and nothing should prevent full bolt movement.  You might consider posting a picture or two so we can get an idea of any problem you might have.  To remove the bolt, pull it all the way back against the stop.  Then, lift up slightly on the extractor while rotating the bolt to the left and rearward as it slides out of the receiver. Install in reverse fashion.

A word of advice:  NEVER try to snap the handguard off the barrel.  The proper procedure is to remove the action from the stock, then remove the rear sight.  Finally, slide the handguard down and off the barrel.  Assemble in reverse.  Also, of the handguard is to remain off the barrel for an extended period, it's a good idea to install a quarter and a penny in the clips to help them maintain their tension while preventing cracking of the handguard.

...  Also, of the handguard is to remain off the barrel for an extended period, it's a good idea to install a quarter and a penny in the clips to help them maintain their tension while preventing cracking of the handguard.[/quote]

Wow, thanks for the tip.  I need to do that very thing.

Vic

Thanks for replying.  The bolt will not go back far enough to remove.  It stops short.  I don't think it would eject a shell.  It really kind of sticks.  I have to hit it with the palm of my hand to unjam it to move it back forward.  I handled by buddies yesterday and his is so smooth and easy to slide.  Mine kind of drags.  He isn't an expert by any means and couldn't figure mine out either.  I feel if I could get the bolt out I might get to the problem but don't want to force anything.  I suppose I'll take it to a gun shop.  Thanks again for your help.

Post some pictures showing the receiver with the bolt closed, and open as far as you are able.  Maybe someone here will see something and offer some helpful advice.  Krag's are fairly simple and straight forward, so a bolt that hangs is usually an indication that something is really wrong.

Likely a bent ejector, missing or bent ejector pin. Remove left sideplate to check.