Yep probably right. I'm sure it will come back fine. When I talked to the smith after a few questions about what I was seeing he basically said send send it right back and I'll fix it. No issues. Whether it not I can shoot it I'll figure out later.

Ask him how he plans to fix it..... the right way, or the 'band-aid' way?

Welding the hook on the barrel.
Which I believe is the right way.

Yes, welding it up and machining it to 'fit'. But there are other considerations in putting a gun back on face as well.

It sounds to me that it may be a problem with the top lever spring. If the spring were shot, but not completely broken, that could cause the off face symptoms you describe. The rotary bolt locking mechanism that Smiths rely on for "never shooting loose" (prepared for incoming flames!) is dependent upon a fully functioning top lever v-spring. I've replaced several intact, but weak, top lever springs with new stiffer springs that totally eliminated the problem you describe. I'd definitely get this issue resolved before addressing your POI issue.
Food for thought and good luck!
John

If lock up is the problem, the spring can cause looseness at lock up. Also from the Recase the lever or the bolt could be binding as Those parts often require minor fitting on reassembly after Case. The type of gap that was stated, makes me think that the hook is the issue. Generally Recasing will tighten the barrel/receiver fit by about .003. It is hard to speculate without seeing it.

Brad

Well, if it comes back with issues still Brad you'll see it. Again- nothing leads me to believe this fellow is not extremely competent given the feedback I've gotten from LC smith folks so I am assuming all will be resolved. Yet, I am not going to continue sending it back and forth.

Gun is back and nicely done. He did weld the hook. No hint of looseness any more. Will get out and pattern it again this weekend and see if anything has changed.

Jeff: That is some fine turnaround time from your smith. Bob

yes- Though he has a very full schedule, took 8 months to get it back initially, and that was actually an expedited timeframe because I wanted this gun back in time for Grouse season, he started work on it the day it arrived. I continue to be happy with his work.