911clutch, I was just reading here as I'm interested in picking up a 24 although I'm not an owner or expert yet. But knowing what I do about guns in general, I think you have little to worry about. As for the case scratches, a little polishing on the extractor so there are no sharp edges where it contacts the case should take care of that. And if it has that much free play, I would also say you are correct and the spring has taken a set. Either put a BB under it, or replace it with a generic spring the proper size and length. Good luck with your 24, sounds like you have a beauty! I'm hoping to find a 30-30/20 gauge. 44 Man