Stevens 411 (Baikal) 12ga SxS

[MrFurious]

Just acquired a like new Stevens 411 12ga SxS.  These were made by Baikal and imported by Savage in 2004, then when Remington contracted with them for their Spartan line in 2005 Savage cancelled their contract.  As such, these are a pretty rare duck.  Features 28" chrome lined barrels, choke tubes, and a single selective trigger.

I have read up a bit on the steps to modify the Baikal SxS's for CAS use, but most of what I've found is 10-20 years old at this point and many of the names referenced have moved on or passed on.  While I don't intend to use this gun in competition, it would be nice to tune it up a bit as it's currently stiffer than a sailor on shore leave in a brothel with a fist full of $50's and the trigger pull is a little stout at almost 7lbs.

So my questions....

1.  Any reputable gunsmiths familiar with the Baikal's in Ohio, northern Indiana or southern Michigan that could slick it up?  Prefer not to ship, especially given what UPS is charging these days.

2.  Is replacing the cocking and hammer springs with 26 or 28lb 1911 main springs still the "go to" for these?

3.  Has anyone stepped up and started making modified cocking arms like Papa Dave was offering before his passing?

4.  Any "tricks" for working on these to make life simpler during assembly/disassembly?  Have plenty of experience working on bolt guns, lever guns and handguns, but haven't ever dove into the inner workings of a SxS before.

Thanks in advance for any assistance/tips provided.