ted: as a matter of fact, this gun is tight with or without the forend installed. also, i have seen guns that are loose with the forend removed. however, when the forend is installed, the gun is tight. i see no good reason to repair a gun, so long as it is tight and safe to shoot when fully assembled and ready to fire. or in other words, IF IT AINT BROKE, DONT FIX IT! however, if you want the top lever to the right for cosmetic reasons, then it is your right to spend your money as you see fit.

keep it simple and keep it safe...