'condorjohn' - FYI - A model 1898 Krag barreled-action will also fit into your sporter stock. It just leaves a bit more gap in the bolt handle area, but, it is not terribly noticeable.

(BTW - a model 1896 barreled-action will not fit into a model 1898 stock, without altering the wood in the bolt-handle area and ruining the value of the stock).

What is the condition of the bore on your model 1896? It looks like it is begging for restoration. That has become an expensive process, especially the wood!

(p.s. - I do not have a sportered model 1896 to swap. I may have a sportered model 1898).