My instance was not that much. My hook was not engaging the guard very well, a bump would push the lever down. Only took a little off that one surface and cured my particular instance.
I have not seen a gap like you described, but thought it would have latched up tight before that gap showed up. Never a surprise in the gun stuff huh?
I am sure you have studied the interface of the guard and the lever lock until the cows came home. Wonder if a new lock piece from Ruger would help? Hope you get the issue settled out.
