Hi, The '98 carbine has many features that can help you. Ser. ranges apprx. 117M to 134M. The correct stock is only applicable to that carbine. '98 cartouche, sling bar/ loop, '96 carbine "C" sights, 22" barrel with rounded muzzle crown, mortised front sight base to name a few. Not to say someone could  have changed the sight, barrel band and hand guard. '98 carbine is by far the most faked. Post some photos and see what responses come up. Compare it to the site photo section and I have mine posted under carbine eye candy & 2. It is about seven pages of post in. I compare the '96 to '98 to '99. It might help you spot any differences. I'm sure others will respond. John