I can't help with gunsmith question, but I have same rifle and never thought mine was that bad for being a lever gun. Not doubt you but just saying for a lever gun it isn't bad and I don't know much ya could do with it. What caliber you have? I have a 308win. and know a fella with a 243 win. wish mine was the 358 win.
mine is a 308 also. It has a terrible trigger, creep, hitch, creep, grit.....bang. I had a Chinese SKS that had a better trigger than this thing does. I don't expect it to be match grade, but 3-4lb and crisp would be nice.