Barrel to Magazine Gap

[Winter Hawk]

After many years of not having one, I just picked up a used Marlin 336.  I tore it down and thoroughly cleaned it.  When I put it back together I had to really squeeze on the magazine tube to get the barrel band on.  I turned the band around and was able to slide it back to the notches in the barrel and magazine, but there is no gap between the front of the tube and the barrel.  Is this normal, or do I need to get a different barrel band?  I don't remember this from when I owned Marlins in the early '70s.  Oh, according to the serial number the rifle was made in 1978.

Thanks for any input,
-WH-

[Sure-Shot]

I have some that are very tight and some that are not.  I think the only question is does it shoot well.  If the harmonics are affected by the tightness of the band so as to  cause a problem you may want to look for another band (easier than a new tube) if not then not a problem.  My experience so far is neither situation has caused a problem.