M89 Danish Krag-Jorgensen

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	Weapon: M89 Danish Krag-Jorgensen Type: Infantry Rifle Country of Origin: Denmark Year Adopted: 1889 Overall Length (mm): 1100.0 Overall Length (in): 43.31 Weight (kg): 4.00 Weight (pounds): 8.82

The M89 Danish Krag-Jorgensen rifle was the first iteration of the innovative Krag-Jorgensen bolt-action system, designed by Norwegian inventors Ole Herman Johannes Krag and Erik Jorgensen. Adopted by Denmark in 1889, the rifle featured a unique side-mounted magazine that allowed for smooth and reliable feeding of cartridges while enabling single-shot operation without depleting the magazine. Chambered in the 8x58mmR cartridge, the M89 offered respectable range and power, making it well-suited for the era's infantry combat requirements.

Production of the M89 began in the late 19th century at the Danish government arsenal in Copenhagen. Over 60,000 units were manufactured for the Danish military, with several variants introduced to modernize the rifle and adapt it to specialized roles, such as the M89/24 carbine. Despite its relatively small production numbers compared to later Krag models, the M89 was influential in the development of bolt-action rifles, as its smooth action and innovative magazine design were highly regarded.

The M89 saw service in the Danish military during the early 20th century, remaining in use through World War I and into the 1930s. Although it was eventually replaced by more modern rifles, its legacy endures as a pioneering design in bolt-action firearms. The rifle is notable for its historical significance, being the first Krag-Jorgensen model to enter service, and it remains a cherished piece among military historians and firearm collectors.