Hello, I inherited this 1898 Krag Carbine from my Father when he passed. I am trying to identify if this is a real carbine or not. The main question I have is the unusual handguard. It is missing the metal barrel band and the indention where one would be. However I don't think it is just a case of a missing band the stock shows no sign of one was ever there. So my question has any of you seen a stock like this or is this a replica stock? Pictures of handguard attached additional pictures in link.

Thank

Model: 1898
S/N: 132821

IMG_20190103_120338463.jpg.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/c58pZaYE4u96DpaA8