Thanks guys! You gave me the clue I needed!!

You have to pull on that sucker pretty firmly and then it clicks.

I am so happy!

It almost appears that internally there really isn't any relationship between the parts at all but with firm pressure and sure enough they engage! "Click!"

#2 Question.

The fore end barrel retention pin (brass). Those two disks which form the slot thru - should they be flush in the stock?

The factory holes are too small for the hardware. Every other cut provided in the stock is 100% accurate and a beautiful fit so why these aren't even close is a bit of a mystery.

I'm up for flush mounting (just enhances the task) but just wondering if stylistically these were flush in the original.

I'll go to the range at the Izaak Walton in Fairfax and hope to see a finished one there and it's owner. He's there from time to time.

Thanks - much appreciated.