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30/40 Krag, Brittle Receivers???

Don McManusDon McManus Member Posts: 23,655 ✭✭✭✭
edited September 2010 in Ask the Experts
At a show this past weekend, a seller was trying to convince me that the U.S. Krag rifle had the same brittle receiver problem as the early Springfield 1903s, and were not shooters.

I had not heard this before, did not see a reference to it in a search here, and was curious if anyone of you are aware of any problem with the Krag receivers.
Freedom and a submissive populace cannot co-exist.

Brad Steele

Comments

  • Spider7115Spider7115 Member Posts: 29,702 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    I've never heard of any Krag having a brittle receiver and I've owned many of them, both rifles and carbines. They're also a favorite to sporterize into a hunting rifle. The seller is wrong.
  • mark christianmark christian Member Posts: 24,453 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    There is nothing wrong with Krag receivers. Both the Krag and the 1903s used Springfield Class C steel, but the Krag had a much higher manganese content and it's heat treating process was totally different from the '03. The "weakness" in the Krag centers on it's bolt, which has only a single true locking lug and would never be able to stand the firing of modern cartridges like the .30-06. The Krag receivers are just fine.
  • elubsmeelubsme Member Posts: 2,158 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    As stated earlier, the weak point in the Krag is the single lug bolt. On occasion the lug would give way and crack with higher than normal pressure. I only shoot lead bullets from mine anymore.
  • MPMP Member Posts: 265 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    The Krag and early 1903 were both made from the same steel and heat treating.

    When a Krag receiver gives way it does not deform but comes apart in pieces just like the early 1903's. I tested one to destruction so this is not second hand information.

    They are plenty strong for the 30-40 Krag with or with out the single locking lug. They have an ample safety lug.
  • Don McManusDon McManus Member Posts: 23,655 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    Thanks gentlemen.

    Don
    Freedom and a submissive populace cannot co-exist.

    Brad Steele
  • Hawk CarseHawk Carse Member Posts: 4,380 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    I think it was P.O. Ackley who said the saving grace of the Krag was the rimmed case which could be chambered right up to the rim with no exposed web to blow and let gas loose in the action. Unlike the "low number" 1903s.
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