Hoyt
Ok, you beat your gun with a steal hammer; generally not a good idea, but there is a good chance youâ??re still dealing with the original problem.
I truly believe your barrel lug is deformed and you aggravated the situation by hammering on your gun.
Can you send me a picture of your barrel lug, a picture of your lower receiver in the area where the barrel lug passes through the frame (front frame well)?
Then put the two parts together turn them upside down and take a picture of the barrel lug in its most rearward position (first binding)
vern_t_2000@yahoo.com
Take a steal ruler and place it inside the rails of your guns frame both sides and upper receiver both side, if it lays flat the full distance, chances are you didnâ??t warp the gun.
You said you used a punch, at what point on the gun did you place the tip?
Did you hammer directly on the guns frame or receiver or just on the punch?
Do you have a set of calipers? Not absolutely required but they would help.
Donâ??t give up just yet!
Vern