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Norwegian Krag

gary wray
I just purchased a Norwegian Krag at a local auction. Only bought it because it is chambered in the Swedish caliber, 6.5x55 and in in great shape. Had heard years ago that the Nowegian Krag's should be fired for a reduced load as they are not as strong as the Swedes. Any truth to that from you Krag experts out there on GB? Would like to hear your views. Don't want the guy to blow in my face when I take it out to the range! Thanks...and good shooting!
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Comments

4 comments

Date Votes
  • rufe-snow
    You have a military rifle that is obsolete and hasn't been used for many years. Us folks in cyberspace have no idea where it's been and how much use/abuse it has seen over the years. Best be careful with it and don't push your luck. The Krag mechanism/action isn't as inherently strong as the Mausers the Swedes used. Light handloads are in order, if you do any shooting with it at all IMHO.
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  • ENBLOC
    Look at the reloading manuals. Unless you have a recent Ruger, Winchester or re-barrelled '98 action you are advised to keep the pressure low. You don't want to damage a historic firearm or any you are fond of. Err on the side of safety ALWAYS.
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  • jonk
    In the Norwegian and Danish Krags, the bolt guide bears against the receiver when locked and acts as a secondary locking lug, unlike the US designs. This increases strength. That said the 6.5X55 tops out at about 46,000 CUP whereas the 30/40 for the US Krag tops at about 39,000 CUP. So the 6.5 is a bit hotter.

    Now the start loads for the 6.5 are right around the 39,000 CUP mark so if they are safe pressure wise for the weaker US Krag action, they'd surely be fine for your Norwegian. Maybe even a LITTLE beyond them. But no, you'd not want to hotrod it or use high power ammo either.
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  • gary wray
    To all replies....many thanks to all GB experts for the helpful information. As I advise others, going to take the Krag to my local gunsmith for a complete check before even thinking about taking it to the range. If it is checked out OK, going to try to find some reduced 6.5x55 loads to run through it, or just keep it at home in the rack. Again, thanks for the feedback. Good shooting!
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