I have a horrible trigger on my M94 lever gun with the cross bolt safety. The trigger has at least 1/2" free travel before engaging the sear. Can this slop be removed and how?

No. The trigger and sear are 2 separate pieces. The trigger is pushed forward by the lever safety to prevent pulling the trigger unless the lever is pulled up against the lower tang. Grasping the lever, and pulling it up fully, elevates the locking block, and allows the trigger to move far enough to trip the sear.