Op you have a two part barrel. Your talking about screwing out the barrel but the shroud wouldn't turn if you were able to get the barrel tool, that you won't be able to get anyway because smith wont sell them. The shroud is keyed to the frame. Backing up the barrel will open your gap and leave you with a shoud that moves around. Soon your barrel would unscrew and fall out. Your ball fits the way it should. You might not understand the design but it has been explained quite simply. You should sell your 69 at a deep discount and put this behind you. I can offer you $300 right now.

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