Thanks for the reply. Here is a quote from the auction, which I'm seeing is more of a sales tactic than historical evidence. But for the price I paid, it really doesn't make or break the deal for me. I don't know how the serial number research evidence shows for each rifle or its a "range".

"This a Krag M1892/96 manufactured December 1895, serial 23624. Overall excellent – 85%+ finish. Bore is very sharp and bright. Stock is excellent with clear “P” firing proof at wrist. According to Mallory and Olson, THE KRAG RIFLE STORY, P-258, and the Springfield Research Service rifles in the serial number range 23599 – 23667 were issued to the U.S. 8th Infantry Regiment in Cuba, 1898."

Bummer the pictures won't open. I will try to upload a few on here. But its a pain to individually upload. I have 15 pictures in the album to show all aspects of the rifle.

By chance, could anyone see if Serial 7336 has any date in the Mallory book? This is another rifle I just purchased at auction. I don't have it in hand yet, but it looks like a promising early Krag as well. Bluing isn't nearly as nice, but the stock looks good. Here's a link
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If this one has a date cartouche on the other side, I'll be a happy camper, the seller didn't say when I asked. So I'm thinking not. BUT when it gets here I'll find out. I think for the price with random Austrian Werndl bayonet, its a good deal. I love Krags, do you think 3 Krags in a month is too much???!!!  :D