I got out my petite Krags, today, and introduced them to the new member of the "Harem".

Each one of these 'short rifles' was somebody's 'Deer Getter', except the second from the Left or Top. That one was put together from parts, starting with a stripped action.

Some of these were very ugly when purchased. The bottom three are: a scoped model 1898 carbine, a re-barreled (22 1/2 inch barrel) model 1899 carbine, and an "ugly duckling sporter" model 1899 carbine, that is now all original parts.

These all have very nice bores and came together by carefully shopping and swapping parts.

They are not worth much financially, but, it has been fun and educational putting them together.

To some collectors, this is "junk", but, these are the Krags I most enjoy shooting and they shoot good.

I have long wanted a model 1896 carbine. The going price for one is prohibitive and would relegate such a carbine to the gun safe. So the 'new' Krag may satisfy that appetite.

I wish one was a family heirloom, but, sadly that is not the case. Then again, maybe my sons will see them that way someday.  :)

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