FWIW - Buy the Gun, not the story. Personally, I would not pay any premium because a Krag came through the CMP, in recent years.

From my observation, a lot of the CMP guns were returned from VFW Posts. Some of these Krags were shortened to 1903 Springfield length. Some had very poor bores from 'Blank' firing. Some were once painted "White" and had telltale paint residue in the wood pores.

Caution is needed to make sure a Krag's Chamber has not been altered for some strange 'blank'.

As others stated above, be patient, get a Krag reference, and read it. It will make you a better Krag 'Hunter'.

In my experience Krags, (even poorly altered ones), have often been overpriced and misrepresented as carbines or rare models.

However recently, I have seen some decent Krags showing up at gun shows for a fair price. (Older collectors culling their collection? Limited interest in 'Old Rifles'  during the 'Black Rifle Era')?

It pays to go to a known 'quality gun show' with cash in your pocket. Talking to a seller, when you have a decent amount of knowledge, will soon reveal if you are hearing good information or Pure Blarney.

Many of us started our Krag Hobby with an inexpensive & honest 'cut down' Krag, with nice parts and an excellent bore. These can be great 'learning pieces' and a lot of fun at the Range. (We probably still have this altered Krag ... or two)!

p.s. Bore condition does matter.
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