RE: Excessive fouling making loading difficult - suggestions?
I don't think that video states you can shoot 5 times consecutively using 777 pellets. How many pellets were you loading... 2 or 3? Usually, two shots with two 777 pellets before swabbing -- one shot with three pellets 777 before swabbing. Make sure the bore is absolutely dry before shooting -- then use plain water, Windex or alcohol to swab. No gun oils, solvents or Bore Butter to assist you. If loading sabot/bullets is too difficult on the first try with a clean, dry bore, buy another sabot/bullet or keep the bullet & replace the plastic sabot with one that loads easier.
I would return the Optima to the store & tell the store manager CVA lied to you about cleaning every five shots. Get a refund or exchange it for a Knight or T/C rifle. Their manuals and/or videos don't lie!