Is this normal in a new barrel?

[DaveTooley]

If the groove is all ready on the large side, which it probably is leaning that way, the last thing you want to do is make it larger.

 

[kyotekiller25]

Looks pretty normal for a $100 barrel to me. If you want a glass smooth, hand lapped barrel, buy a bartlein, krieger, brux or another top tier $400 barrel...

 

[L.Sherm]

Thank you for your input. Have you had a negative experience with fire lapping in the past?

Exactly what Dave said is why I wouldnt.

 

[47WillysGuy]

Thank you for your input. Have you had a negative experience with fire lapping in the past?

Barrels are considered consumables. You have a good mass produced barrel. Wear it out and then go Bartlien or Krieger or custom barrel manufacturer and won’t have those inconsistencies.

 

[RabbitSlayer]

My factory ruger MPR barrel looks similar. Stupid cheap gun with a drop in trigger and handloads holds submoa all day. It just fouls a lot and is harder to get clean than my custom barrels. I say send it!

I would personally wrap a worn out brush with a patch and work it with a little iosso. Remove it all with rubbing alcohol before firing. Not necessary, it will just reduce fouling on the first shots and make it easier to clean the first time or two. See winning in the wind barrel break in on youtube. I have done this on my Tikka varmint and my buddies tikka super varmint. Both guns are shooting amazing and cleaned up easy after the first couple firings. To be clear, the only benefit is less fouling the first time or two you shoot it and that makes the first couple cleanings much easier.