jay dee:  I'm not sure, but it appears the metal of your Krag was subjected to some type of 'metal prep' solution or 'Naval Jelly', that stripped off the metal finish and 'patina'.  My Krags have seen use and are not pristine.  The metal finish is worn and has aged to a patina.  I am attaching pictures so you get the idea of what the finish of a veteran Krag looks like.  (When issued, IMHO, the action, cocking-piece, safety, magazine door, and side-plate had a case-hardened appearance that wore and aged to a mottled gray.  The bolt body was in the white and polished.  The extractor spring appeared almost flame blue.  The cut-off lever and bolt sleve appeared blackened.  The barrel, rear sight base, and barrel bands appeared a brownish/blue - nothing like modern gun 'black/bluing').  It is easier to get a feel for what is right by viewing Krags than by description.

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