First, I want to say thanks for an Amazing website. I have lurked for some time and read a lot of threads. The time several of you guys take to help newbies like me is commendable and very much appreciated!! Now that I'm done "sucking up".....

My father owned a few "old" rifles and handguns that he kept stored away over the years. We both owned several "new" firearms that we shot and hunted with together, but for some reason he never did much with the older guns. My Dad passed away in 2004 and my Mom gave me his collection. I picked everything up from her recently and found that he actually had a nice old carbine. Through a fair amount of research here and other places, I have found out the following about this carbine:

* Model 1896 Krag Carbine
* Serial number 77169
* 22" barrell length
* Front & Rear sights "appear" correct
* In good working condition (my assessment, not NRA!)
* Missing cleaning rods and oiler

I will try to post pictures soon. I want to keep this gun and am looking for what I might be able to insure it for. Any idea on a rough appraisal value? Is there anyone in the Southeast that might be a trusted appraiser?

I also want to find the cleaning rod and oiler to make it complete. Would this carbine have had a 3 piece rod? Would it be worth spending the money for these items, or just leave it as is?

I would like to clean it a little and display it in my study. What would be the best way? And any recommended display methods?

Thanks for reading this far. I hope to learn enough about this carbine to be able to help other newbies in the future!!

Thanks for the reply John! That is some great info. I have found some really good photo locations. Some of which are "owned" by members here. I have seen references to a photo section here, but have not been able to find it. Did it get removed? Or am I just missing it?

Ned Butts wrote on Oct 7^th, 2010 at 1:09am:

Thanks Ned! I found it.

Here are a few pictures I took tonight. I gotta get a place with better lighting. Sorry for the crappy photos!
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JOHN42768 wrote on Oct 7^th, 2010 at 2:47am:

I have thoroughly enjoyed reading the history of the Krag Carbines, as well as the rifles. And your input is greatly appreciated!

I did a "gentle" cleaning last night. Mostly with my firearm cleaner/lubricant on the metal surfaces. The bore looks good, but dirty. I don't have the proper cleaning rod and will be looking for that at a local gun/knife show this weekend.

Speaking of cleaning rods. You mentioned that mine should have originally had a two piece rod. I thought I read somewhere that the early run (transition from 92 to 96) of 1896 Carbines had the two rod set-up, but the later version had the three rods. I would just like to verify before I go and try to purchase a replacement set-up.

I am also still interested to know what the value might be of my Carbine. I think it would be prudent to add it to my home-owners policy. I've never owned a "real" collectible firearm, so I want to make sure I take care to protect its value! Thoughts?

Nucmedman wrote on Oct 7^th, 2010 at 2:52pm:


Thanks! And good info on the cleaning rods. I will look tonight. I will also search for your thread. I had no idea this was going to become such a fun hobby! I would have "unwrapped" the gun a few years ago!

Dick Hosmer wrote on Oct 7^th, 2010 at 11:06pm:

Thank you for the information AND especially the compliment! Having you say that means a lot! 

JOHN42768 wrote on Oct 8^th, 2010 at 5:34pm:

I've found several on-line, but was not sure if they are all pretty standard, or are there any special features that I should be aware of that are specific to my Carbine.

Hi, The sectional cleaning rods starting in 1896 were all the same till end of production. The sections are  8.281" in length. One section with slot for patch. If you are becoming hooked on the Krag, some books are: "The American Krag Rifle and Carbine" 2nd edition, revised by Joe Poyer. This is the least costly by a long shot. "The Krag Rifle Story" by Franklin Mallory with Ludwig Olson and "The Krag Rifle" By Lt. Col. William Brophy are both great books, but are not inexpensive. Check fleabay, Amazon and the other sellers. Good luck