P1 field strip problem

[dude_clutch]

I took my newly aquired P1 to the range over the weekend for the first time and now I can't seem to get the slide to come off for cleaning.

Going through the take down procedure I: Pulled the slide back until it latched, removed magazine, rotate takedown lever, gently release slide to forward position, manually decock hammer, and at this point I'm stuck. The slide will not move forward like it should.

I field stripped this pistol a few times just to get to know it before I headed to the range and had no problems. I don't want to "whack it against the bench" like a buddy suggested. Is there something I'm missing? Is this a common problem I can fix myself or should I take it to a gunsmith? I hate to think the damn thing is broke after only 100 rounds.

Thanks in advance,
D.C.

 

[gb6491]

Do you have the safety on?
Regards,
Greg

 

[dude_clutch]

Safety is off.

 

[gb6491]

It's been awhile since I've operated a P1/p38 and I can't recall if it was critical that the safety be on, but I do remember it was part of the drill:
Check for a safe pistol.
Insert an empty magazine (not a total requirement)
Put the safety on safe.
Pull the slide back until it stays back lock back and remove magazine. Without a magazine, the slide may be made to stay open by pushing the breech (slide) catch latch up.
Turn the barrel catch lever downwards until it engages with an audible click.
Draw the slide back slightly and allow it to move forward and off the frame.
If doing so without a magazine, draw the slide back slightly and allow it to move forward while depressing the catch lever.

You will probably be better helped by these threads from the P38 site:
http://forums.p38forum.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=11485
http://forums.p38forum.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=18044

Regards,
Greg


Regards,
Greg

 

[1KPerDay]

Safety is off.

That's your problem.