That butt plate screw is not centered and screwed down completely.  The cartouche sure looks sharp and new for being 115+ years old too.  That serial number is not within the established range for a 98 carbine (the suspected high numbers) is it?  Above all, the barrel with that 1902 sight is a sure deal breaker for me... especially at $800.  But still, I'm sure there are unsuspecting dupes out there who have no idea and will buy the rifle because they think they're getting the deal of the century!  Just like the idiots on American Pickers who valued a 98 sporter cutoff at $1250.

Tragic!

While it certainly is NOT a real carbine, let alone a real 1898 carbine, I'm not so sure, after looking at ALL of the pictures, that the wood is fake (look at the triggerguard shot for example). I have a cartouche about that nice.

Rear sight does look like a mixture, though. Front sight is clearly wrong - wonder what muzzle face looks like? I'm thinking it must be an 1898 rifle (cut) married with a carbine stock.  That is one of the very highest receivers known - per Farmer's book.

I wouldn't pay that price, but I'll bet someone does. FWIW, I have zero knowledge of the shop involved - but the guy's attitude turns me off.

Just my $.02.

I'm sure glad I came across this group!  I've been sifting through the posts as to "what is what" and referring back to gunbroker and watching my jaw hit the floor.  There are countless fake carbines on gunbroker, even one starting at $2200!  Now the real work begins...

I saw an 1896 Carbine at the Fort Worth Cabela's on Friday. It looked like heck - much worse for the wear when compared to this one, but with its price tag of $800, it was likely actually worth it:)