Used the jack on my car for the first time yesterday, just poking around. That jack is a neat little guy .

Anyway, I noticed that on both of my front wheels, when I'd give 'em a turn, the brake pads were rubbing on the rotors a bit. It didn't seem to be rubbing more in any particular spot, it was all pretty uniform.

My question is - is that normal to have some rubbing without brakes applied?

 

Yes, if they are just touching that is normal, if they rub severely have a look for rust on the pins where the pads are supported. if rusty clean the rust off or replace the pins (best) and put a little grease on the support pins. Silicone grease I think.