This receiver, barrel, and front sight post look like a legit carbine.  Right serial number range, shorter front sight post etc.  The stock is clearly wrong along with a screwed in barrel band.  The rear sight looks to be a 1901 of some sort.  The metal looks dark to me, possibly blued?  Serial #27087.  The price is already at 425 and the auction is Saturday morning.  Is it worth more, should I try and get it and get a right stock, sight etc.?

While it is temptingly cheap, you're not getting much.

Restoration to ANY form of 1896 Carbine, even the long-stocked version, is going to be expensive, very expensive.

I would also verify that the barrel actually is a full 22" - I know that pictures can be deceiving, and the bastard stock length only confuses matters, but it looks quite a bit shorter to me, more like 20" maybe.

I'd suggest saving your money and buying better. It is a buyer's market right now - "toy money" is dear, and prices/sales are definitely down from what they were a few years back.

The only saving grace is that it IS consecutive to a Rough Rider gun. Having said that, however, be aware that NO provenance is thereby given. A number HAS to be exact. And, having said THAT, I will point out that the records have not been found for ALL troops of the 1st USV - though they have been earnestly sought by people who knew what they were doing.

So, I guess there is a glimmer of hope. Your $$$, your choice! 

Thanks guys, man this is a great site.  I will probably go to the auction and get a closer look.  That was real close to a hit!