Sounds like someone at the factory quit just short of a good job......take the fore stock off, and see if it closes better. The stiffness you describe is usually a tight for end. If it closes and opens well, shoot it with the fore end off, and see if it comes unlatched. (Be careful and don't let the barrel fall off if it does.)
I usually remove the spacer and remove just a little material at the time from the flat surface. I usually sand the spacer, as it's cheaper to replace than the fore stock if you get an oops.
If the barrel is tight with the forestock removed...I would send it back.
Ben