Krag Collectors Association Forum Archive
Firearms >> U.S. Military Krags >> This old Krag Rifle is new to me
http://www.kragcollectorsassociation.org/cgi-bin/yabb2/YaBB.pl?num=1537910028

Message started by boomer on Sep 25th, 2018 at 9:13pm

Title: Re: This old Krag Rifle is new to me
Post by Whig on Sep 27th, 2018 at 12:09pm
A few observations in examining your nice original Krag shows the flat muzzle seen on the original 1894 rifles as well as the nice checkered cocking piece on the rear of the bolt. The flat metal butt plate was talked about also. The cleaning rod (ramrod) looks like it has some aging patina to it so it may be original to this rifle also. Many of these are reproductions. The rear sight is an 1896 rifle sight but, if you want, many original 1894 sights are available on places like ebay for a reasonable price.

It is relatively easy to disassemble a Krag if you have any mechanical abilities. Just go slow and use sharp edged screw drivers that fit fully in the slot and turn carefully. It is a used rifle with lots of honest wear but take care and don't mess it up more. Nice honest wear shows years of use which adds to the personality of these treasures. Light cleaning as discussed is fine but avoid heavy abrasives and the typical habits of refinishers because that quickly devalues a great collectible.

It would be nice to examine and report back to us as to the condition of the bore. It probably has some pitting but hopefully will show some rifling. Don't worry about the bore too much because these are so rare that one in any reasonable condition is great. You probably don't want to risk firing it. Get another later Krag to shoot and enjoy on the range. I wouldn't dare risk shooting my 1894. Some of the older bolts have almost invisible cracks in the rear of the bolt that can worsen with even lightly loaded ammo. Low risk but why take the chance?

I would also get one of the references mentioned on this sight and look up each small detail about this rifle and take notes. Almost every part has its own history about development and change as the Krag evolved.

If you take off the side plated below the left side of the receiver, look to see if it has a serial number. The early ones were serialized on the inside.

Good luck and keep us in the loop!

Krag Collectors Association Forum Archive » Powered by YaBB 2.6.0!
YaBB Forum Software © 2000-2024. All Rights Reserved.