The Model 1898 was manufactured between 1898 and 1903 with a production total of 330,000. This example has the standard blade front and elevation and windage adjustable rear sights and is mounted on a smooth straight grip walnut stock with a boxed "JSA/1902" cartouche, circled "P" proofmark, and a smooth steel buttplate with trapdoor housing a three piece steel cleaning rod.

Fine. The original blue finish has mostly faded to an even brown patina with stronger blue in the protected areas and near the muzzle. The case colors have also fade but remain visible along with a mottled gray patina with some minor spotting. The stock is very good with a number of dings and a few minor scrapes. The action remains smooth true to the Krag's reputation, and the markings are clear.

This interesting carbine has most of the characteristics of the standard Model 1896 carbine that was used during the Spanish-American War but falls before the standard 1896 serial range and has the receiver marking of "U.S./1896. SPRINGFIELD ARMORY. 30473" (note the lack of "MODEL"). It has the standard blade front sight and carbine folding ladder rear sight. The stock has a spurious 1896 dated cartouche on the left and the standard circled script P on the bottom. The butt trap is empty.

Good. The blue finish has faded and now has a brown patina. The receiver has traces of the oil quenched case colors and the bolt is bright. There are some areas of minor pitting most notably on the buttplate. The heavily sanded stock is fair as repaired and partially refinished with some small dings. The handguard is a modern replacement. Mechanically excellent with mostly crisp markings.