[ithacaartist]

Not sure if this will further clarify or confuse, but... I think what everyone is describing is that the tension in the action--from the recoil spring--should be removed while the holdopen is being pressed down, at its rear-- necessary because with the tension there, and the breech block actually being pressed against the holdopen in its blocking, raised position, no doubt the holdopen will not be shifted easily. And when it does, your flesh better not be in between the front of the breech block and the breech, as it will snap shut with a vengeance! This is done by pulling the toggle knobs back and holding them back while the holdopen is manipulated. This may require a third hand, one to hold the pistol, one to hold the toggle knobs back, and one to press the holdopen. It can be done with two, but putting the pistol into a padded vise will make it a lot easier.

I also think Ron is correct when he says the upper won't come off with the toggle knobs up--the recoil spring connection to the rear toggle link will be under tension and the connector from the rear toggle won't flop free, out of the way of the upper's removal.