Probably just the worms unionizing for better pier views.

Magnet trick is the way. Seen the same thing on a 2010 frame once, paint hides everything until it doesn't.

Man, you hit on something there. That old school method really shines when you're crammed into a tight spot where a stripper just won't fit. It's like the tool becomes part of the job instead of the other way around. Once you get the feel for the angle and the pressure, it's almost meditative in a weird way. I still keep my auto stripper for the long runs, but for those harness repairs or anything near a bulkhead, it's blade and patience every time. There's a reason the old timers swore by it, and it ain't just nostalgia.