Howdy, folks!  Been lurking for a few months (and learned a heckuvalot!  Thanks!!) and finally decided to join.

I was recently bequeathed an 1898 Krag rifle.  Been through Poyer line-by-line and the config doesn't match anything I see there or on the web. 

My best guess:  MFG 1904 (according to SN/Poyer) but stock not original, based on the complete lack of any cartouches, proof marks, the shortened length, and the rough fitting around the trigger plate, the stock configuration between the bolt handle (closed) and the magazine gate.  Given the original buttplate & rear site, and the quality sling swivels (re-fitted from a carbine?  they look like they belong, but nothing like them in pics of other rifles…) I wonder if this was refitted on some Army base at some point.  It does not look bubba'ed, but the barrel is 29.5 inches, not 30, and the crown is decent --  re-crowned?

I'd be grateful if folks could tell me where my analysis is good and (especially) bad.  Thanks!

In re the cracked stock, have a replacement stock (from Boyds) that will take a little fitting, and  an original front barrel band incoming from DeChristopher.

Not much of the original finish left, but would I be damaging value if I re-blued, or should I leave as is?  (It will be kept in a basement gunsafe with multiple levels of H2O control).  Seems to me much of the collector value is tied to an original stock, and this rifle is now heading towards at least it's third (with my new one).  While the rifle has significant sentimental value to me, I intend to use it as a shooter (if I can ever find ammo…) and an heirloom, not an investment.  I'd be grateful to benefit from the wisdom of the Board on these matters.  Thanks!

will attach pics when I can figure that out…

Welcome! Just a few random thoughts for you (please feel free to disregard). 1) Hold the rifle. 2) Study the rifle - appreciate what it has been through in the last 100 years or so. 3) Learn to take it down, clean it and reassemble it - understand it. 3) Shoot it - learn its feel. 4) Search your feelings - many catch the Krag fever some do not. 5) THEN decide what your next steps should be. Maybe another project would be better? (I would bet against that though!) I have found that wherever you're headed, surprise opportunities are here and there - look out for the fun times along the way! 

I have done a couple Boyds stocks, they do require some fit and all finish but can be done. As to the current stock, I would mortise and tenon a new forend onto it and depending on the severity of the crack, repair that too. Your weapon appears to be shortened at the best spot to add a replacement forend, some color matching of old wood and new and they work just fine.
As to the "bluing" Krags were hot oil quenched finish for the most part, so I would suggest you just keep the weapon oiled well and let the age and metal patina be your finish.
Just a couple thoughts.