Make: Springfield Armory

Model: Model 1898 Krag

Serial Number: 97408

Year of Manufacture: 1898 (Antique)

Caliber: .30-40 Krag

Action Type: Bolt Action, Fed by Side Loading Gate into Internal Magazine

Barrel Length: 24” (sporterized, shortened from original military length)

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade dovetailed into a raised post. The rear sight is a sliding elevator sight.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is in a sporterized 2 piece wood configuration featuring a straight comb, steel buttplate, straight grip and grooved forend. The LOP is 13.5” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There are some light scratches and compression marks present. There are no chips or cracks. The stock rates in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 87% of its current metal finish. There is moderate surface oxidation present on the finish. The markings are clear. The bluing is strong. The screw heads are lightly tool marked with serviceable slots. This rifle rates in Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: The Springfield Model 1898 Krag is an iconic rifle in U.S. military history, known for its unique side-loading magazine and exceptionally smooth bolt action. Although originally designed as a military service rifle, many Krags were sold off as surplus and sporterized by civilians during the early to mid-20th century, giving them a second life as hunting rifles.

This particular example, manufactured in 1898 and thus classified as an antique, has undergone a classic sporterization. The barrel has been trimmed to 24", the stock reshaped and refinished, and the handguard removed—enhancing its portability and handling for field use. The original military rear sight remains intact, preserving a bit of its martial heritage.

Collectors of antique firearms, historical shooters, and hunters alike can appreciate this rifle for its smooth action, solid bore, and unique place in U.S. firearms evolution. Its antique status adds further appeal, making it a no-FFL-required addition to any enthusiast's collection.