See http://i.imgur.com/TQaP0Qq.jpg

This tube seems to be fairly similar to the 16KP4 - no aluminization, almost the same specs. Looking at the gun assembly, it whole of it is tilted in the base by some amount. I thought that ion-trapping was done in only part of the gun assembly, not with the whole - but what the heck to I know.

Does it look right?

Looks like sloppy alignment at the factory. I have seen the "bent guns" you are talking about. Does this tube work?

I've seen tubes like that before, pretty sure it's for Ion trapping.

I have a 17RP4 that arrived here looking like that. I thought it was dammaged in shipping. I installed it, set the ion trap, GREAT PICTURE... :)

Turns out some guns were made that way. Unless it tests bad, i wouldnt worry about it :D

SR

its ok , they where made that way .

Yes, the gun was intentionally installed that way. It needs an ion trap or "beam bender" to function properly.

The ion trap is used to pull the electron beam back on-axis, while the heavier ions shoot harmlessly into the inside walls of the tube.

Ion traps were also known as beam benders, for what are now obvious reasons.