New guy from Massachusetts

Hello, I have a couple of Savage firearms but I recently obtained a Model 24 and I am very excited about it as I have been looking for one for a long time! I have some questions about it however:

The model I have does not have the lever on top of the tang to break open the action; it has the slide/button that slides in on the front of the trigger guard. The thing is, I have to push the slide way in, like beyond the front of the trigger guard. I actually need the tip of my finger to push it. That doesn't seem right to me...? Can anyone point me to a member, or forum topic I need to use to get help on this?

I'm sure someone here will be able to help you. Welcome from colorful Colorado

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Welcome to the savage family.

Welcome aboard

Welcome to the SAVAGE BROTHERHOOD

So this is the lever I need to push way in with the tip of my finger to get the action to open. It seems like there is something missing but every parts list I find on line only shows the tang lever style of opening the action....?
https://i.ibb.co/bQDmgB8/005.jpg

welcome