Ruger #1 forend question

[sxsboy]

Has anyone ever bent the forend of a Ruger #1 down for clearance to install a non-tapered barrel? I was told that it is a simple operation and involves a slice foreward of the weld not all the way through and then just bending it down for the proper clearance and then re-TIG welding it. My first thought is that you will loose the hammer-strut/main spring geometry and that could be a major can of worms. I'm thinking of making a 30-40 Kraig "cast bullet" gun but only if it can be done w/o major complications.

Thanks, Joe