Mine had a smaller initial gap, maybe a thick fingernail size. I see how all the small things are being pointed out, but I have been using & carrying mine the last couple days and it has been great. I did a little tweeking, but no more than I usually would do to any other knife I just bought.
So far this is what I have modified on my HEST
1. Ground stop pin to lower blade tip
2. Removed & lightly compressed clip to make it tighter in my pocket (something I usually do to any folder)
3. Tightened & adjusted all hardware to the spec I like (pivot tightness, rotolock....)
4. Ran the blade over my strop (blade was shaving sharp when it arrived, but had a little drag doing a paper test)
5. Inserted in my pocket and carried. (this is the fun part)
That is all, when everyone gets their knives they will be happy, even though the ride has been a little bumpy.