1896 springfield

[hagan305]

pics added. I think. I have a 1896 springfield, how can I tell if the gun is original and what it may be worth. Thanks for your help.http://m1140.photobucket.com/albums/...BBIhCsGD5yo%3D

[Geologyjohn]

Post several good, clear photos here, as well as description of the markings that we might have a hard time seeing in your photos. If you post good photos, I suspect a collector or two with respond. Take care, Geologyjohn

[beerman]

More commonly known as the 30-40 Krag. Is it a rifle or carbine? We would sure like to see a picture of it.

[CEDaytonaRydr]

For starters, has it been "sporterized" at all? If it's been chopped, I'd say a couple hundred is the most you could expect to get for it.

If it's an all original 1896 Rifle or genuine carbine, upwards of $1000, or maybe more for a carbine. We'd have to see it to get a better idea of the value.

[hagan305]

Pics added.

[gunboat]

It appears to be a cut down rifle -- Unless the barrel is full length, with original front sight, it is probably not economicaly restorable.
It can still be an excellent shooter and provide a lot of fun.
Brass is starting to become a bit short so acquire what you can, it is an easy reloader.

[CEDaytonaRydr]

It appears to be a cut down rifle -- Unless the barrel is full length, with original front sight, it is probably not economicaly restorable.

FYI, original barrel length will be 30". The original stock will set you back around $250-$400, unless you get lucky at a gun show or something.

I'm not sure if the rifle is sentimental to you at all, but if you're looking to get the most money out of it, it might be your best bet to sell it as parts. Tons of guys are looking for rare Krag parts, especially if you have stuff like an original front sight blade, rear sight screws, etc. Send me some pics of the sights and I'll give you a better estimate.

It can still be an excellent shooter and provide a lot of fun.
Brass is starting to become a bit short so acquire what you can, it is an easy reloader.

Completely true!

They are great rifles. You can even load for them using one of those old "plier style" reloaders. They are easy to load for and great hunting rifles.

[Mike A]

Krags are old, but they are a fairly strong action and can stand a lot of shooting with factory level ammo if in good condition. There have long been opinions (based on what research?) that they are a weak action because they "have a single locking lug and no safety lug." This overlooks the fact that the root of the bolt handle makes a very strong safety lug. For a series of blowup tests on the Krag action, do a search for "Krag" on the "Single Shot and Custom Rifle" forum on the website www.doublegunshop.com/BBS A collector named Michael Petrov did a rather extensive series of tests on Krags whose single locking lug had been completely REMOVED. They didn't blow up easily.

You might also try selling your bubbaed Krag on that site; several of the guys over there like to make Krag sporters. Just don't expect the earth for it; look at what they are selling for on COMPLETED/SOLD auctions on the gun auction sites. Asking prices tell you nothing (especially at dealers in CA).

BTW, most of the "carbines" you see out there are really cut down rifles which have had a carbine front site soldered on. Beware of fakes, especially if there is a "story" with the gun.....

[gunboat]

While I agree that the krag is certainly strong enough for its intended cartridge and is possibly the smoothest bolt action ever made it has its limitations.
The single lug has shown some tendencies to cracking at the juncture of bolt and lug. This area should be examined closely before firing.
The bolt guide, which contributes to the smoothness of the krag is the actual secondery lug, not the bolt handle root. There is no way the guide could ever set back far enough for the handle root to bear.
Bolt removal, while different, is quite easy and directions for its removal are easily obtained.
The 30/40 was designed for the 220 grain bullet and performs well with 180 to 220 grain bullets both jacketed and cast.
It does moderately well with light bullets as well such as the cast 311316 a115gr gas check.
There is no real ballistic or mechanical difference between the 96 or 98 actions, but not all parts are interchangeble.
Krags are FUN!

[hagan305]

Thanks for all the responses guys. After reading up on this gun they sound really interesting. I think I will have my gunsmith look at it and if its shootable I will take it to the range.

[CEDaytonaRydr]

Headspace and bolt inspection is all it will really need...

Ammo is going to be a PITA to find, though. Do you reload?

[hagan305]

I reload for my 7mm REM mag, are dies and brass easy to find?

[gunboat]

Dies are easily obtained -- Lee dies are certainly adequit. Used dies show up every once in a while.
30/40 brass is becoming a bit harder to come by. I understand it is now a "seasonal" product made only once a year. this may be just a rumor though.
You should be able to find small lots of brass at most gun shows. I was able to score 500 rounds of new brass last year for my eight krags -- That lot will see me out!
It is a easy case to reload, no drama.
I prefer .311 dia. cast bullets, as they are easier on the old bore, but .308jacketed loads are certainly acceptable.
For longer brass life, just neck size. 30/40 is a perfect candidate for "kitchen table" reloading.
good shootin' to you ---

[RonE]

From the pictures you added, it appears to be a rifle with a cut down stock. If you want to sell it, let us know.

[hagan305]

I have been wanting an old side x side so if an offer comes along I might consider it.