@hedd Certainly disappointing. What's the walk&talk like though? Since you have no Safe Queens then I'd suggest a very thorough wash with hot water, liquid soap/toothbrush then drying, some WD-40 then a drop of oil. It is possible that some of this rub is due to swarf inside the knife causing surface damage. You'd be surprised what unpleasantness comes out after a wash & brush-up. How about the brass liners? Are they smooth inside or evidence of burrs?
I have/had 5-6 White Owls from the first run, all have very decent snap and no visible blade-rub. If you decide against cleaning it out then you'll have to return it to the dealer, with the current fever, I doubt he'll be able to replace it for you just a refund of an exchange for Stag maybe ? Shouldn't be like this in my experience.
Regards, Will