CL, that does not sound as if its as it should be. Rifling may end prior to the end of the barrel (recessed) to prevent damage to the end of the rifling which is critical. However it should be smooth, tool mark free, and all end evenly...very important. If this is factory work H&R should make it right for you under the warranty (after the season of course) but I would call them as soon as possible on it. You could also have a gunsmith just shorten the barrel about 1/2" or so to eliminate the bad section and recrown the barrel. There are guys here that know of good gunsmiths if you need the work done right, reasonably and quickly. There is however the possibility of a "quick-load" recess of the rifling to assist with the starting of a bullet or ball in the reloading process, but the rifling must still be smooth and even with no tool marks.....<><.... :grin: