This ad appeared on armslist in 2012 would anyone have an opinion on it's authenticity? Thank You, Mark This has been in my family for generations, brought up all the way from Texas originally. This was the LAST Saddle Ring Cabine EVER MADE by the US Military, and only have of the 60K models have the saddle ring. From the research I've done, This Rifle definitely saw action in both the Cuban Revolt and the Philippine Insurrection. Also, according to Springfield Armory Research (I have the doc umentation) the rough riders that requested (after the war) to buy back their Krag Carbines ran From Serial Numbers
23000 - 38000, with a few of the reservists who were in the unit but did not see action being issued later models in the last 60,000 serials produced. This Model is the MOST RARE of all the Krags, Especially given its serial number and the fact that it has the original Saddle Ring. Also, indicative of the Earliest releases of this Model, they were not roll-marked "Model 1896", just "1896 Springfield Armory" because they had literally rushed to get these out to Roosevelt under his political pressure. While Springfield has no ABSOLUTE proof of serial number issuance, except for those soldiers (some 100 or so) who wrote in requesting their specific (by serial number) rifle to buy after the war, this rifle falls right in the middle of the range of serial numbers issued to The 1st Us Volunteer Cavalry, 3rd US Cavalry, and the 10th US Cavalry........The Units Present and Engaged in action at the Battle of San Juan Hill.
Asking $3500 or best offer.....will also accept partial trade, specifically looking for an M1A and $2000 would take this home.
This rifle, its bore, furniture, and metal finish is in as pristine condition as can be expected for a rifle that saw action in TWO major wars, and is over 110 years old. It is chambered in .30-40 Krag or .30 US, the FIRST standardized Smokeless Powder US Military Cartridge (10 Rounds Available with Rifle for Display or shooting) and is a true part of both my Families, AND The History of the Early American West, The Us Military, The ROugh Riders, and a True American Hero, Theodore Roosevelt. As much as I hate to, a Family Emergency Forces me to offer this for sale

Based on sellers "research" with no actual serial number documentation it is a stretch. While it is likely it is not certain when it "falls in the range" To pay a premium based on chance and family handed down history is unwise. Buy the gun not the story!! For example, the 1896 Krag carbine (the model being advertised) was NOT "the LAST Saddle Ring Carbine EVER MADE by the US Military" !

Thank You Guys, better safe then sorry....buyer beware!