Thanks, Nitrox. Laborious is too small a word for that process. A a.k.a. for that rifle might be "Lucifer". Mr. Saunders sounds like a real piece of work.

I had a similar problem with a Leupold some few years back. After sending it to them for repair, they informed me the cost would be 80$ (U.S.) + postage and insurance. That was a bunch in 1980. I pitched a total bitch with them and told them to keep their piece of $&it. About 2 weeks later it showed up at my door, post paid. I only mention this cause you've about endured enough with this episode. Leupold should cover that.