It's a 3/8" long thin line in the case right at the base. No it doesn't make a difference to leave it in there before extracting... Thanks that's what I think also as far as a machining imperfection in the chamber but i can't seem to locate it with my finger or cotton ball. It's the only thing that makes sense though. I guess I will wait for Savage customer service to get back in the office in a few days and see what they think