I'm the OP.
Here's the final tally:
Ruger reported back to me that the LCR needed to be replaced.
You'll find the replacement offer below (with sensitive info edited out).
I had the brand new Replacement LCR (
with new serial number) on July 1st. I made my original inquiry with Ruger on June 7th. So, there's your turnaround time.
Here's the kicker: The brand new, fresh off the line replacement LCR seems to have the same divot (or very very similar to) as the one I sent in.
And this new LCR has NOT yet been fired.
Conclusion:
Everyone here who said that it was not flame cutting, was no big deal, and/or was probably just a tool mark from the factory was absolutely correct and gave solid sound advice.
Why Ruger deemed that it needed to be replaced, I don't know. They were not forthcoming with an explanation.
In any event, Ruger provided excellent customer service and bought themselves a very loyal customer for years to come. I know if the customer is unhappy they will see to it no matter what.
I'm only sorry that Ruger needed to replace a revolver that was probably fine to begin with.
If I had it to do over again, I'd I've taken the majority of the advice that I received on these forums and left it be.
So for the next person who has this "problem" (or lack thereof), if your divot looks like mine did/does, worry not. Everything's fine.
Pics below of the old frame and the new frame.
I had said originally that my original frame was smooth upon my initial inspection (prior to firing the first time). I now believe that I was wrong and did not inspect the revolver as accurately as I had remembered. I apologize for the selective memory.
Thanks to everyone for their solid and sound advice.
I hope this post is helpful to someone in the future.
ASSESSMENT AND OFFER OF REPLACEMENT FROM RUGER:
ORIGINAL LCR THAT WAS REPLACED:
REPLACEMENT LCR: