Greetings all!  Since almost every component on the bolt of my 1898 rifle is in the white, I have been casually collecting original blued parts to bring it back to original spec.  To that end, I picked up this trio of what appears to be a NOS extractor, extractor pin, and bolt sleeve. 

Everything looked like it would fit together OK, until I inspected the sleeve and noticed that the bottom hole where the tip of the extractor pin goes is actually threaded (see second photo).  Since the pin is supposed to be swaged into this hole, I was expecting it to be smooth, so the threads threw me for a loop.  So now...before I start jamming beautifully blued 100 year-old parts together, I am just requesting your expertise to determine whether:

-The bolt sleeve is correct for an 1898 long rifle.

-If it is correct, why are the threads there?

Again, thanks for your valuable advice!

OK, thanks...I was afraid that would be the answer!  Shame though, as the finish on that sleeve was really nice.

So...this brings me to my next question.  Does anyone have an 1898 bolt sleeve and safety (in similar condition) for sale?  Also glad to trade or sell this 1892 sleeve in case anyone wants it.  Would prefer that you all get first dibs before I sell it elsewhere.

Thanks all...great photos and advice as usual.  As butler mentioned, my problem isn't necessarily finding a bolt sleeve, but finding one that matches the other parts appropriately.  I have been studying Krag finishes for almost a year now, and must have looked at over a thousand rifles by now.  Luckily, just when I thought I wouldn't be able to find one, I think I may have done so elsewhere online.  Will only know for sure when it arrives, but as you know it's always a gamble.

Speaking of finishes, I have seen safeties in both blue and white.  What in your opinion, would be the most correct/authentic?

Thanks, butler...that is a great/comprehensive list.  The wide variety of finishes on one rifle is absolutely mind-boggling though!  What reference does that page come from anyway?

Just bought a NOS sleeve off ebay for $20.  It's got a nice black finish.  I also got a NOS side cover with a not so attractive black finish.  Looks original but just old.

The ebay seller is movieman630. They classify the parts as "used" but everything I've gotten has been unused.  I've purchased a bolt, sleeve, extractor, upper band, side cover and 1902 peep sight at reasonable prices.  Been satisfied with everything I got.  The 100 year old polished bolt with perfect sleeve and extractor is a thing of beauty.

Thanks Bote...I've been buying parts from movieman for a long time, and that's actually where I got the ugly 1898 bolt sleeve.  Definitely not the same condition as most of the other parts that I've received from him.  However, I can't complain or ask for a refund as he doesn't post photos of the exact item and doesn't guarantee mint or NOS condition.  That said, I have purchased some fantastic Krag parts from him, including a beautiful NOS bolt body and extractor.  That extractor in particular, exhibits the most amazing example of niter bluing I've ever seen on a Krag, and that's what I was attempting to marry up with an equally stunning bolt sleeve.  The hunt continues of course, and that's half the fun of this great (and often frustrating) hobby!