I would add a shim - about 2/1000 and see if the gap was gone and if it locked up ok still and how it performed. My factory 2004 7mm08 had a gap after a while and I shimmed it and it works just great now. Just follow the FAQ on shimming and you should be good to go. I use the friction fit and the shim stays in place until you remove the barrel, just put it back when you put the barrel on. I have a few Handis that have been shimmed in this mannor for years with no issue, as long as you do not remove the barrel the shim is in place. thejanitor