On my 17 GT Tribute T, I have the chip under the pickguard, too. I thought of a way to prevent it with tape, and such, but the fix would probably be worse than the chip.
I would think that Gibson would use a smaller screw and nut. But I suppose you need a stable surface for the guard to lay on, so the screw may be that way by design. I don't think we would want a wobbly pickguard.
My ES-125 pickguard has the screw where the f-hole is. So it's a bit wobbly, and occasionally I'm afraid of damaging it when I finger pick or strum. It's surprising how it's held up for all these long 60 years. Not a crack or blemish.... fingers crossed. Man, that is an awesome guitar.
I also prefer the LP look with the guard. And I always need it for my pinky when I finger pick. Now, I think the honey burst looks great without the guard. If I had them side-by-side, I would have had a tough time deciding which one. Would have come down to feel and playability........