Any way to make a single action shotgun a little easier to open?

I've got a Savage Stevens 94C in 20 gauge that has seen very little use. The problem is that it is incredibly "stiff" compared to other single action guns I've owned. I flip the release and then have to force it open. It's not binding, it's just very stiff. I've taken it apart and lubed it but it's such a simple gun there's not much that I can see to do to help the situation. I don't know if this is normal for this type of gun or if there are any suggestions for improving how it opens. Any ideas?