Ted, et. al.: I'm back from the left coast without the Tobin. The gun was indeed loose at the breech, plus the bottom rib was detached under the forend. If anyone else is interested, it's probably still tucked away at the far right end of the long-gun rack at 4 Seasons Outfitters in San Luis Obispo. The boys there were helpful and easy to deal with. Thanks to all for the advice and for the pix.