Make: Springfield Armory

Model: 1898 Krag

Serial Number: 269596

Year of Manufacture: 1900

Caliber: .30-40 Krag

Action Type: Bolt Action, Fed by Side Mounted Magazine

Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “U.S. / MODEL 1898. SPRINGFIELD ARMORY. 269596”. The markings on the bolt handle are no longer legible. The barrel band is marked “U”. The bottom of the grip is marked “46” and with a “circled P” proof. The left side of the stock, above the trigger, is marked with a boxed inspector’s cartouche “JSA / 1900” (J.S. Adams).

Barrel Length: Approximately 30 Inches

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade set and pinned atop a raised base. The rear sight is a square notch escalator assembly with an two position flip-up tangent U-notch marked out to 18.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock has a straight grip, cutout for the bolt handle, finger grooves, barrel band, 2 sling loops, and a metal buttplate with hinged door for storage.. There are scratches and pressure dents throughout. There are some chips and gouges concentrated on the buttstock. There are no cracks. The LOP measures 13 1/4 inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttstock. This stock rates in about Good overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is very minor erosion present in the grooves. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains approximately 80% of its metal finish. The metal shows scrapes, small scratches, and discoloration from patina. The receiver, magazine, and trigger guard also show thinning. The screw heads show light use. The receiver markings are deep. Overall, this rifle rates in about 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-Jørgensen is one of the most distinctive and historically significant bolt-action rifles adopted by the U.S. military. Serving as the standard infantry rifle from 1894 until the adoption of the 1903 Springfield, the Krag was praised for its smooth action and innovative side-loading magazine. Though eventually outclassed by faster-loading designs, its elegant mechanics and excellent build quality left a lasting legacy in American arms development. This particular example was produced in 1900 at Springfield Armory, during the final years of Krag production, and represents one of the later refinements of the design. This rifle retains many of the desirable features collectors seek, including a crisp 1900-dated cartouche from inspector J.S. Adams, a boxed “JSA” stamp, and the distinctive side-loading gate that defines the Krag action. The 30-inch barrel is topped with a flip-up tangent rear sight and a pinned blade front sight, appropriate for this configuration. The bore remains bright with sharp rifling and only minor erosion, an excellent characteristic for a military rifle of this age. The finish is still strong across most metal surfaces, with thinning and patina consistent with service and handling. While the stock shows wear, pressure dents, and some small gouges near the buttplate, it remains free of cracks and still displays the inspector markings.

For collectors of U.S. military arms or early bolt-action rifles, the Model 1898 Krag represents a fascinating chapter between black powder and modern smokeless cartridge development. This rifle’s overall condition—featuring strong original finish, a sharp bore, and clear cartouches—makes it an appealing addition to any collection. Whether appreciated for its mechanical ingenuity, historical significance, or distinctive American style, this 1900-dated Krag is a classic example of the craftsmanship that defined Springfield Armory at the turn of the century.