vc1111:
Jimbo, if I were you, I'd make a phone call to Thompson Center Arms about the loose hinge. I'd be willing to bet that they would repair or replace that rifle free. Their service is nothing less than outstanding.
I did call them a couple of months ago. The guy I spoke with said that I could send it back and pay shipping one-way, but I didn't want to send my Encore away when our "late" muzzleloader season lasts until January 3. As a possible quick fix, he agreed to send me a couple of over-sized hinge pins to see if they would be an improvement... they weren't, unfortunately.
After this season ends, I'll be giving them a call so that they can straighten this out. I certainly don't doubt their customer service capabilities. Almost everyone has good things to say about them and I'm sure they'll treat me right.
Happy hunting,
Jim