Thanks lads
Tim- had a browse on the vortek site today. Seals look good, spring guides look interesting- had any experience with them?
Had her over the chrono tonight, 20 shot string, 834-845 fps, about 11.45FPE avg, so chuffed with that - but found a little trick to help the cocking balance- by cocking with my hand at the usual top of the lever, then once cocked slide my hand down so it butts up against the stock, safe as anything, load pellet, the slide hand back to the top and replace lever.
I'm sure that sounded more complicated then it really is!!!