Just Inherited

[Bill Russell]

Thanks to everyone for their advice. When I reassemble the pistol, I do invert it so that the barrel section just slides on, then I turn the gun over and make sure that little curved T shaped spring falls into the well.
This is the point where I get confused. Should I pull the toggle to the open position, then add the magazine, then put on the side plate?
When I do this, the side plate goes on very easily, but, the barrel slides back and forth when the safety is off.
IF I engage the side plate after pushing back on the barrel (it takes a little force) the barrel stays put, with just a little give when you push on it.
I was worried that the little catches on the side plate would be damaged under what I thought was too much pressure.
Also when I do this, the toggles take some force to pull back, which I guess could be because they are pulling on a big spring?
Anyhow, thanks to everyone for their kindness dealing with a Newbie. I truly appreciate it.

Bill