Will an 1894 krag extractor work on an 1898?

[webradbury]

I found a complete one at a decent price but it says it came from a 1894 model. Just wondering if this part had variations from model to model. Thanks

[gnoahhh]

1894 dated rifles were actually M1892s. Production didn't ramp up until that year. Most of those early rifles were upgraded to M1896 configuration as they came in for repairs. Completely original M1892's are awfully rare. Upgrades included replacing the 1892 extractor (held onto the bolt sleeve with a screw) with the 1896 (held on with a rivet). Very early rifles didn't have the bolt hold-open pin built into the extractor also. M1896 and M1898 extractors are interchangeable. Pics would help.

Lots of subtle differences between the models. It might be time to buy a reference book before you get too far along or buy parts you can't use. Two good ones are Mallory's and Brophy's, but they're out of print and only available through used book channels. Well worth the money spent regardless, especially in saving ill-spent money on wrong guns or parts. Poyer's book is in print and readily available, and way cheaper too, but contains errors that can lead a newbie astray and is nowhere as comprehensive as the other two. Still and all not a terrible book.

[webradbury]

Thanks for that...I just ordered a reference book from sarco. Thanks for the info!