Krag-Jorgenson Carbine

[Jorge]

I saw an interesting K-J carbine, 1899, at the local gunship.  Nice patina, smooth action.  Did not look at the bore, as I was pressed for time.

However, on the left side of the barrel, between the muzzle and the sight level, there was a definite machine mark, with distinct edges.  at the deepest, it may have been a mm or so.

Any information on what to look for, or look out for with such a carbine, and what do you think of the cut out on the barrel?

I know, an image would help.

[Garrison Joe]

Is the cut blued, which could indicate a modification at an armory?  A 1 mm deep slot cut into a small part of the barrel probably will not affect the ability to fire it safely.

Might it have been an attempt to add a early telescopic sight?

1 hour ago, Jorge said:

between the muzzle and the sight level

What is a "sight level" on a Krag carbine, anyway?  Do you mean the rear sight?   good luck, GJ  

Edited September 24 by Garrison Joe

[Jorge]

Just the area of the front sight/band.

I could not find anything about such a cut, that was done by an Armory.  Must have been a civilian blemish.  One fellow thought it sounded like a key cut, but for what?

[Garrison Joe]

A mounting slot for some sort of flash hider perhaps?  GJ

[Jorge]

Such a modification is not listed, at least in one source.