'Kragrifle's original post introduced the subject of "Reworked model 1896 Krags" having a stock 'cartouche' dated 1900 or 1901, (rifles and carbines). IMHO such Krags beg explanation and this has kind of been lost in this thread.

Since manufacture of model 1896 actions ended, at around serial #109020, in approximately July, 1898, these late 'cartouche' stamps create an interesting puzzle. Were these model 1896 Krags not accepted for service until 1900 and 1901, or are these 'dated cartouche' stamps simply surviving marks on recycled stocks? (If the stocks are recycled, it opens the possibility that Springfield or other U.S. Arsenals may have altered 'used' model 1898 stocks to rebuild some model 1896 Arms).

More data, like the serial number range (of such model 1896 arms) and the stock condition (original finish or arsenal refinish), might throw further light on model 1896 Krags with 1900 & 1901 'cartouche' marks. Very close scrutiny should be given to the stock-inletting in the bolt handle area.