Springfield Krag, Model 1898 Rifle ………….. (F 1231)

Fine example of the Krag M 1898 Infantry Rifle by Springfield

Presenting an exceptional example of the Springfield Model 1898 full-length Infantry Rifle — a true prize for serious collectors. This rifle, serial number 460923, chambered in .30-40 Krag and features the classic side-loading 5-shot magazine.

Measuring 49¼” overall with a 30″ round barrel and a 13½” trigger pull, it showcases the robust craftsmanship of its era. The full-length, two-piece stock is crafted from beautiful American Black Walnut, complete with a straight wrist and distinctive finger grooves along the fore-end. A short handguard neatly encloses the rear sight.

The action is crisply marked:
“U.S. / MODEL 1898 / SPRINGFIELD ARMORY / 460923.”

This serial number places the rifle in the very last year of production—July 1903.  The stock cartouche is likewise dated 1903.

The underside of the wrist carries a clear and correct circled “P” final proof mark, confirming the rifle successfully passed its original firing tests. On the left side of the wrist, you’ll find the boxed script “JSA / 1903” cartouche of inspector J. Sumner Adams—the very man who approved this rifle at the Springfield Armory. The rounded box marking remains crisp and sharp, easily identifiable, and when paired with the matching serial-number data, it strongly supports that this is the rifle’s original, factory-fitted stock.

The stock itself is wonderfully smooth to the touch, displaying an attractive even rich plumb-brown tone. It retains all the characteristic handling marks expected from an active military life—honest wear without any distracting damage or heavy blemishes. A clean, appealing, and authentic stock that complements the rifle’s late-production significance.

The metal surfaces are only starting to show an attractive, even transition from original blue to a pleasing brown patina, in small areas.  The barrel has retained a strong colour as has the nose-cap leaving the action in a classic, well-aged look. The case-hardened components—including the LHS of the action, side plate, and loading gate—have remained strong in colour, hinting at carful care and maintenance within its life of honest service use.

The bolt body retains its period-correct bright “in-the-white” finish, with the remaining parts blued or case-colour hardened as originally produced. It features the distinctive mushroom headed cocking piece and rear flag safety, both signature elements of late-production Krags.

The side loading gate spring remains notably strong, snapping crisply into place—an excellent example of the robust engineering these rifles are known for. Although the design did not allow loading from a clip, soldiers of the era found quick reloading practical with the Mills cartridge belt, a method this rifle was originally intended to complement.

The exposed portion of the barrel has remained mostly blued with age just knibbling at the patina, adding to the rifle’s vintage character. Hardware includes twin sling swivels, a stacking hook, and a front band incorporating the bayonet lug, all consistent with correct military configuration.

A beautifully patinated, mechanically confident example, with all the hallmark features collectors look for in an authentic late-production Springfield Model 1898.

Fitted with the 1901 pattern rear sight, this rifle features the classic sliding-ramp design, graduated from 100 to 2000 yards. The sight includes its correct front locking windage adjustment, with crisp graduations at the rear and additional markings along the side of the base. These include the unusual marking which seems to read “4 B”!  The B represents a fixed distance of 375 yards, for battle conditions.  There are four available aiming apatures or points on the sight used for different requirements which the troopers would learn off by heart to obtain better results. It doesn’t take long under inspection, to note that the uprights of the leaf component are machiened unevenly to allow for the Krags tendency to drift to the left; this countered that effect.  The finely machined open “U”-notch aligns perfectly with the unguarded front blade, a configuration prized for its precision craftsmanship.

The flat steel butt-plate retains its original trap door, intended for storing the issued cleaning equipment—now empty. These kits originally included a three-piece, screw-together steel cleaning rod and a nickel-steel oiler with its small “dabber,” accessories that have become increasingly scarce on the collector market.

On the left rear of the action sits the Krag’s  single-shot / magazine selector, complete and intact — an iconic feature of the model’s design history.

A well-appointed upper assembly with all the hallmark details of a late-production Springfield 1898, offering exceptional appeal for the serious U.S. military arms collector.  A rifle that has a reputation for almost being over machiened!

The bore remains good but lightly worn, showing fully defined rifling with expected signs of use yet no serious pitting—a remarkable state for a rifle of this era, with plenty of character and integrity preserved.

Though the Krag-Jørgensen served on the front line for only about 15 years, its service continued well into secondary roles, even extending into the period of the First World War. Considering this long career and its age, this example has survived in exceptional condition, a testament to both its design and the care it has received.

This rifle stands as an important historical artifact, representing a fascinating transitional period in U.S. military arms development. It’s unique engineering and instantly recognizable profile make it a standout piece in any serious collection.

A genuine, standard-pattern, unaltered U.S. service rifle from the final era in which highly trained riflemen—skilled in marksmanship, sighting, and fieldcraft—played a decisive role on the battlefield. A truly compelling addition for collectors who value authenticity, originality, and historical significance.

Stock No F 1231      F.A.C. Required

£ 1350.

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