I have never noticed this before but on a SS CRF 70 action that I looked at today,looking at it from the bottom the lower left corner on the bolt stop side is split. It seems like it was designed that way,but I just never noticed. Unless it is cracked and then I'm screwed....hope not

Ok after searching the net for some time I found a photo that shows the split....whew I was worried there. No wonder the accuracy guys use Rem 700's...lol.

Yep, normal.

Although some rifle builders weld it up and re-machine it.

It does look bad, but I just hope to someday be a good enough shot that that is what's holding me back!

Yeah, LOL is right..

...just to add bux for a higher bill at the end.. It's a non-factor, really..

It only presents a potential problem -- and people pay a lot of money on custom guns for "potential".