I have a new Sport II that hasn't been fired yet (except whatever they do at the factory) and I was giving it a first cleaning/lube last night. When I took out the BCG the bolt was pretty hard to move, even after I lubed it up - is that common, or something to be concerned about before firing?

Thanks for your help!!!

Only thing I would be concerned with, is to look at the gas rings to make sure they are separated and you don't have one overlapping another. If not, the bolt will wear in with the carrier with use.

Clean bolt, lube bolt (don't over lube it). Put rifle back together. Pull charging handle. does it pull back, release. does it go forward? Repeat several times
If so go shoot it.

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Still Running Against the Wind

Don't be the least bit concerned about it. The tighter, the better (good gas seal). It'll loosen up a little after shooting it. With the BCG out, and the bolt rotated all of the way to the rear of the carrier (by hand), you should be able to hold the rear of the bolt carrier and give it a quick, sharp, flick forward. The bolt should pop out completely in the forward position. Clean all of the factory oil off, clean/lube the rifle, and go shoot it!

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SIC SEMPER TYRANNIS

Tight gas rings most likely.

Not a problem, since they’ll loosen up after the rifle has some rounds fired through it.

Don't over think it, clean and lube, then shoot it, if there's a problem, you will soon find out...