Overview

The Springfield Model 1899 Krag was the final variant of the U.S. Krag–Jørgensen series of bolt-action rifles, adopted by the U.S. Army in the late 19th century. Chambered in .30-40 Krag, this action was renowned for its smooth cycling and unique side-loading magazine. Many Krag rifles were later modified into “sporterized” hunting rifles by both Springfield Armory and civilian gunsmiths, making them lighter, handier, and more practical for field use. This example represents one such sporterized Krag 1899, paired with a Kodiak soft case for storage and transport.

Specifications

Manufacturer: Springfield Armory

Model: 1899 Krag “Sporter”

Caliber: .30-40 Krag (U.S. Army designation: .30 Army)

Action: Bolt-action with side-loading rotary magazine

Capacity: 5 rounds (internal box magazine)

Barrel Length: Typically 22″–24″ (cut down from original 30″ military length for sporter conversions)

Overall Length: ~42″ (varies depending on sporter conversion details)

Weight: Approx. 7.5–8 lbs

Stock: Walnut sporter stock (shortened from full-length military stock; typically straight or pistol grip)

Finish: Blued steel barrel and receiver (patina common on older rifles)

Sights: Barrel-mounted open rear sight and front blade; often altered or upgraded during sporterization

Accessories: Comes with Kodiak soft rifle case for protection and transport

Design & Features

Sporter Conversion: Unlike the full military Krag rifles with long stocks and handguards, sporterized models feature a shortened stock and barrel for better handling in the field.

Unique Magazine System: The Krag’s distinctive side-loading magazine gate allows rounds to be dropped in individually without the use of stripper clips, and it feeds smoothly due to its rotary magazine design.

Smooth Bolt Action: Known for its exceptionally smooth cycling, the Krag bolt remains one of the easiest to operate among turn-bolt rifles of its era.

Durability: Built with Springfield Armory craftsmanship, these rifles remain solid over a century later, though condition varies with use and modifications.

.30-40 Krag Cartridge: Delivers moderate recoil with ballistics suitable for medium- to large-game hunting, making the rifle popular among early 20th-century sportsmen.

Performance

Accuracy: When properly maintained, the Krag is capable of good hunting accuracy—often in the 2–3 MOA range—especially with handloads tailored for the .30-40 cartridge.

Recoil: Manageable and softer than later high-velocity .30 caliber rounds like the .30-06.

Hunting Use: Effective for deer, elk, and similar-sized North American game, particularly in sporterized form with lighter handling characteristics.

Use Cases

Sporting/Hunting Rifle: Originally sporterized to serve as a reliable, field-ready hunting rifle.

Collector’s Piece: While not as collectible as original unaltered military Krags, sporterized rifles still hold historical value and practical shooting interest.

Shooter’s Rifle: A fine option for those who want to experience classic U.S. bolt-action history in a functional, field-ready package.

Display & Storage: Comes with a Kodiak soft case, providing padded protection for transport and storage.