[pdscott]

Krag carbine with filled in ring bar and spring for rear barrel band, is this a real carbine or sporter model. How will I know before I buy it.

 

[Krag]

True carbine stocks had a flat spring inletted into the right side of the forearm to hold the barrel band in place. Carbine barrel bands do not have cinching screws on the bottom as do rifle bands.

The surest way to tell if it's a true carbine is to examine the rear sight. ALL carbine rear sights have a "C" stamped on either the base or the leaf. In addition, M96 and M01 carbine sights are adjustable to greater ranges (2000 and 2200 yards) than are the rifle sights.

 

[thorin6]

Other checks include the correct front sight (not like a M1903 sight with the collar that encircles the barrel) and barrel length of 22 inches (exact--plus or minus 1/8 inch or more is not correct) measured from the front face of the bolt when bolt is closed (or rear of chamber). Muzzle should be properly crowned, not flat with a distinct shoulder.

 

[pdscott]

krag carbine?

Thanks for your help, still not sure about where you measure the length of barrell on real krag US carbine. What was last year US krag carbine were made?

 

[Krag]

Some rifles and carbines were reportedly assembled in early 1904 although I have not seen a cartouche later than 1903.

 

[Rick the Librarian2]

Regarding measuring the barrel, I've been told to take a cleaning rod and run it down the barrel until it meets the head of the bolt. Measure the cleaning rod instide the barrel. A true carbine, as mentioned, should be 22"; a cutdown rifle or sporter will be 24". The M1903 front sight is also a dead giveaway.

 

[Dutchman]

howdy Rick

Welcome to our humble new forum. I hope you stop by often and share your learned experience. Are you as good with Krags as you are with 1903 Springfields? I'm not too bad with 1903 but Krags aren't my strong area. I just sweep the floors here

Dutchman