The Krag–Jørgensen bolt-action rifle became a defining feature of Norway's military modernization efforts in the late 19th century. Prompted by technological advancements in firearms and the changing nature of warfare, Norway's adoption of this rifle reflected a broader trend among nations to improve their military capabilities. The rifle, designed by Ole Krag and Erik Jørgensen, was innovative for its time. It utilized a unique loading system with a magazine that could hold five cartridges, allowing for faster reloading during combat scenarios. This feature, coupled with its accuracy, made it an attractive choice for the Norwegian armed forces.

The introduction of the Krag–Jørgensen rifle also symbolized Norway's desire to establish its own identity and capabilities as a nation, particularly after gaining independence from Sweden less than two decades earlier. The adoption took place during a period of increasing militarization in Europe, where nations were seeking technological superiority. The Krag–Jørgensen was not only used in Norway but was also exported and adopted by various countries, including the United States, which utilized it during the Spanish-American War.

In the years that followed, the Krag–Jørgensen rifle saw action in numerous military conflicts and became an integral part of Norway’s military heritage. Its reliability, ease of use, and accuracy made it a preferred choice among soldiers, contributing to the rifle's long service life of almost fifty years. It was eventually replaced by more modern firearms but remains a significant artifact in the history of military weaponry and Norwegian defense policy.