Maybe there was never "Fakery" involved.

Somebody with knowledge and talent may have just wanted and made a credible 'Replica' copy of a model 1898 carbine.

We don't know. Intentions and the story have been lost, due to death. Possibly, everything was known and above board and no one was taken advantage of.

If 'King carp' feels like he made a bad mistake and was wronged, I'll give him $360 for his "Fake Carbine".  ;D

There are lessons here for all of us:

1. We can easily contaminate history.

When we 'part together', repair, and restore a nice Krag, (or other gun), for our pleasure, 'Shooting', and use, the story of 'what we did' will be lost. Our handiwork may become an enigma and a cause of confusion to others.

Our present intentions are good and known. However, if our 'project' Krag passes into the hands of the unscrupulous, someone possibly will get 'screwed' in the future.

2. The regulars on the KCA Forum are nice guys, encourage and learn from each other.
However, our sharing of insights and information can be viewed and exploited by scoundrels and poltroons to fake and cheat "more better".  8-)

We have to 'Dance' carefully.