Just received my 694 (DROS pending) and while examining it I noticed that wood pieces are not flush with metal. I frankly don't remember whether this is normal - so wondering if people who have access to one at home can chime in. Please see pics.

Thank you

It is standard among o/u and sxs gun makers. I have 3 Berettas and a B Rizzini in O/U and several vintage American side by sides. The only one with flush wood to metal fit is an older double gun on which I took off too much wood when refinishing.
But specific to your question. I have a 3 week old 694 and the wood is proud.

Wood to metal fit, in stress areas, is often a little proud to avoid cracking under repeated recoil.

Well, the days of hand-fitted guns are pretty much gone. Most guns, especially a standard production gun like yours, are going to be almost entirely machine-made.

Nailing the metal-to-wood fit in those areas would require a craftsman sanding them down together before finishing, and that just ain't happening today.

I have some S&W revolvers from the 20s and 30s and the wood grips feel like they are a part of the frame with no seams or discernable gaps. Those days are long gone in the industry unless you are buying custom, bespoke guns from low volume makers.

I'd be interested to compare that to the modern Beretta SO series to see if they are different in the production methods. I'd bet they are for the price you pay for an SO.

I have both. I’ll take a look and TRY to post pics tomorrow. I dont mind overhang as long as Metal to wood all touches !

yes thats normal even with my near new perazzi mx8 and DT11

Normal.

You want the wood on your new gun to be a bit proud. This leaves some wood for a refinish because every time you refinish a stock you lose a little bit of wood. The very best custom guns come with a bit of extra wood for this reason. Be happy.
Jeff