Until recently, I did not have any model 1896 Krags in my 'collection'. Now, I have two model 1896 Krag projects.

A while back, a KCA member, 'condorjohn', traded me a model 1896 Krag action with a full length barrel for a nice model 1898 action with a shortened barrel. John was building a 'hunting rifle' and did not want to cut and ruin the collectable full length barrel. (I wish more people were so wise)!

The 1896 barreled action, I received, is definitely worthy of restoration into a full length rifle.

It must have been subject to a rebuilding program, due to it having a model 1902 rear-sight and a model 1898 bolt. The '98 bolt it came with closed on my Field Gauge. I have replaced that bolt with a 'New Old Stock '98 bolt. (This has corrected the headspace).

Someone started to cut a dovetail on the bottom of the barrel, but stopped. This blemish will be hidden by the stock.

Some pictures of model 1896 Krag project #1:

Model 1896 Krag project #2.

On another gun forum, a gentleman posted pictures of a friend's Krag, that he was considering buying. The OP lost interest, when informed the Krag was altered for 'Hunting'. The OP was kind enough to put me in touch with his friend. This nice 'cut-down' Krag recently arrived at my house.

This model 1896 has an excellent bore. It arrived with a model 1898 bolt that also closed on my 'Field Gauge'.

I put in the bolt that came with my first project model 1896 barreled action and it has corrected the 'excessive headspace'.

This second model 1896 was also likely subjected to a 'rebuild program', at some time.

It has the model 1902 rear-sight variant that used the leaf and altered eye-piece from a model 1898 sight. (The slide lock-screw is sheared off. I do have a spare lock-screw to repair it).

This stock never had an Acceptance Cartouche or the 'Circled P' (proof stamp). It is likely a field replacement stock.

The barrel is 22 and 1/8 inches long with a 1903 Springfield front-sight.

I plan to 'stretch' this cut-down stock and put it and the hand-guard on model 1896 Krag #1.

This cut-down rifle will ultimately get a stock and be a fun 'Range Gun'.

TO BE CONTINUED

Undoubtedly better than the broken stocks they replaced! 

The lower rifle's wood is sooo dang nice!  Your going to have a beautiful rifle when your finished!!!

I'm still looking for a nice sporterized rifle project to do the same type of restoration.

Hopefully a rifle in the same condition.  Unfortunately, much of the stuff out there is pretty rough or the sellers are very proud of their offerings.