In the end, the side-loading magazine and butter-smooth action were the rifle’s beloved features. To appease the doubters, a second military review was mandated and the Krag Jorgensen rifle once again emerged victorious, albeit now with a year of delayed production. American developers were so dismayed, a formal complaint was filed against the act of adopting a foreign arm for U.S.
military seeking a new long gun to replace the old Springfield M1873 trapdoor single shots, they held a competition in 1892, which drew over 50 submissions including the three (all foreign) finalists - Lee, Mauser, and of course, Krag, who won the contract. However, its unusual magazine could be topped off without opening the bolt - a plus for the ever-ready soldier in the field. Not unlike its competition, the Krag had a magazine cut-off, allowing it to function as a single-shot rifle. Though the majority of that era’s rifles were loaded by chargers or stripper clips, the Krag could be charged quickly by feeding single rounds through the right-hand side loading gate, from whence ammo would cycle around and into the action by a spring follower. Krag-Jorgensens are easily recognizable by their side-loading, horizontal box magazine. (Photo credit: Rock Island Auction Company)
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