Recently 'John M11' asked in the 'Modified Krag Section' about scope-mounts that used the Krag side-plate. He has a model 1898 Krag that was 'sporterized' and has two widely spaced tapped holes in its side-plate.

When I responded on his thread, I could not recall any scope-mount that used the side-plate. I ran across reference to one, yesterday, I had forgotten about.

In 1901, seven Model 1898 Krags had the Cataract telescopic sight installed for field trials. The rigs apparently performed well, but, were not pursued further.

(Note: The spacing of the holes on 'John M11's side-plate is more extreme than the Cataract mounting system).

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Could a Cataract scope setup be duplicated with one of those long MVA scopes?  Looks possible to me.

I think that would be a fun project and would only require altering a side plate and barrel band. It would probably be more comfortable if you shoot right handed, but, could sight with your left-eye.

I would love to study one of these mounts. It appears the front ring pivoted on the barrel-band and that the rear ring could quickly be adjusted for different target distances.

Just the rig for 'Vintage Sniper Matches' !

Ok... Now you've peeked my interest (Vintage Sniper Match).  Hmmmmmm  Could you imagine a Krag taking that title?

Oh this is cool. Someone, can't remember who or on what board, mentioned that the side plate was fairly thin and probably wouldn't provide enough threads for a secure hold. I wonder if that experiment used a modified side plate or if the mounting to the barrel band provided enough stability? 

Being the sight/scope set up wasn't ever issued, only an experiment, would it be allowed in the vintage sniper  competition ? I remember that there was some wording in the rules that was a general description of what was allowed. But mostly I remember that specific rifle/scope combinations were allowed.

Mine could be brought back to military configuration. I can't imagine the cost of doing so though.

It was I, that said, the Krag side-plate is thin. The Cataract mount appears to have a thick block that was 'anchored' to the side-plate.

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Just adding what i can find. 

I'm trying to find something on the Caaract scope 

I guess I will order a copy of this 1899 reprint from Cornell Publications. Hopefully, it shows better detail of the Cataract Mount.

Note - The catalog page shows a (Long) Lee-Enfield with the Cataract equipment.

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Were it me I would solder the scope base to a side plate and not risk the screw threads being too shallow. Use a separate plate from the one that's original to the rifle, too, for posterity reasons.

Yes 'gnoahhh', those are all good ideas. I am thinking Cataract Tool did something like soldering a block or base on a side-plate.

If I ever pursue making a 'replica Cataract rig', I will use a side-plate and barrel-band that someone ruined by 'refinishing'.