Handi Release Lever question...

[wralyn]

I picked up my new-to-me .223 Ultra Varmint today that I bought on GunBroker and have a question about the release lever. It seems really loose. The barrel breaks open smoothly and everything appears to work fine. It just seems that the release lever should have some level of tension...both side to side and up and down.

I saw the Handi-Basics 101: 9.  With a barrel locked up good, the barrel release lever will likely be loose to the point of rattling if you shake the firearm, the release should be snug with no or little looseness with the action open.

I can't tell a difference when the action is open or closed. It's all the same.

Is this an issue? Is it "ain't broke so don't fix it" or is there a sinister gremlin doing great damage inside?

[quickdtoo]

Is it "ain't broke so don't fix it"?

Yup, shoot it, then deal with it If there's a problem. 

Tim

[murphdog]

Mine does the same as yours, and I've had no problems with mine.  I have 4 different barrels fitted to it and have put several thousand rounds through it, with no problems. 
Duane

[wralyn]

I didn't think it would be of any concern, I just didn't want to do any damage by not checking first. The gun is in near perfect condition and just got cleaned to take it out for some test rounds tomorrow. Everything is tight and smooth to operate. The release lever is the only thing out of character.

[demented]

  Mine's so loose I thought it wasn't attached and would fall out.  Has caused no problem at all.