Just inserted the front wheel on a cross bike I am building up. Frame and fork are new, fork is an AlphaQ CX20. I literally had to pull the fork blades apart to get the front axle properly seated. Tried another front wheel and it seemed just as tight.

Is this normal in some new forks? Will it develop some more clearance over time with a front wheel inserted?

Not normal, and probably indication of poor QC (for this particular fork at least). Although it doesn't necessary mean it will break or anything.

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