RE: scope clearance
Thumper, what kind of T/C do you have? If you have a Hawken or Renegade in percussion don't go bending the hammer. I got a used Hawken percussion lock that already has the hammer bent just for the purpose your describing. The locks for the Hawken and Renegade are interchangable. Other than the thumb portion being bent the lock is in A one condition.
Being that I don't want a scope on this rifle, I will gladly swap you if yours is in good condition.