I have seen this on two models IIRC.

It was a problem, only when the rifle was used for hunting, coyote etc. and a quick sight picture was needed.

Complaints were that the bent sight guard blade would be mistaken for the front sight blade. Happened several times.

I would not try to fix it myself by hammering or otherwise forcing the guard.

Only as a last resort, if I was out in the desert with no other fix available.

On one particular all matching exc. cond. #5MK1 I had a very reliable gunsmith heat and correct the guard.

I would not let just any gunsmith do this.

That is was my solution to the problem. I don't know if it was correct or if there is a better way. But it worked for us.