I just realized that I had never updated this thread. I still don't know if it was the barrel or the powder coat that caused it, but Springfield made it right. They said send it in and they would take a look. Got the gun back about a week later with a new barrel at no charge. They even paid the shipping. They didn't bat an eye at all the non-factory parts added and they were all still there when it came back. Good experience with a good company.