Rob
My compression ring was the same at first but seems to be getting better with more use.
Might just need a little (very carefully appplied) WD40... or just keep tightening and loosening until it wears a little and hopefully becomes smoother?
If it's any help my MoonLite focuser course focus was also a little rough to start with but has improved out of sight with use.
PS ... DaveP ... am updating the signature as we speak!!!!
