When i assemble the sidelocks to the action body off the stock, the gap between the locks at the back is 36mm. The stock width at the same point is 33mm. It does not sound like much, but its a fair bit and seems to be worse on one side than the other.
Seeing as the tumblers are supported by the inside face of the sidelocks, i do not see how they could operate, or operate well with the lockplates curved or bent.
Its just the usual case of a previous owner getting busy and doing more harm than good.
