This model, based on the Krag-Jorgenson patent, was adopted in 1892 and was the first magazine repeating arm as well as the first .30 caliber for standard infantry issue.  It was also the first arm to use smokeless powder.  The rifle used a .30-40 cartridge with a 220 grain round-nosed bullet, and a charge of 40 grains of smokeless powder, which provided a muzzle velocity of about 2000 feet per second.  This bolt action arm was provided with a magazine under the bolt, accessible for loading with five loose rounds by a side gate on the right of the receiver.  The magazine cut-off, to the left rear of the receiver, enabled the piece to be used as a single loader, with a full magazine in reserve.  The rear sight was graduated to 2000 yards and capable of adjustment for windage. 

     Our specimen is marked on the left side of the receiver “U.S.” “MODEL 1898 SPRINGFIELD ARMORY 189448” in two lines.  On the bottom of the stock behind the trigger guard “60” and “P”.  The band is marked “U”.  There is a nice inspector’s cartouche on the left side of the stock dated 1899.  The bayonet is marked “1903” “US”.