Tries pushing back using the socket but then trying to move bushing is proving to be difficult to say the least. I'll see what a smaller socket does.
Dave at CGW said I should be able to do it, just be aggressive - they use small teflon mallets - and don't mar the finish. Was going to send to them for bushing job and if I send the whole gun, they'll do this as part of the job.
As for hitting the slide on the back, it makes sense that the barrel is bound up on the bushing, but how hard did you hit yours and was there any damage to barrel, bushing threads, etc. (like previous person asked)? If it's just a matter of a good whack with a rubber mallet, i would try it. Or did you do this some other way "gently tapping" it forward? What you're saying makes sense just wondering how you did it so I can replicate it.
This is the first time I ever didn't just go in tools ablazin' and attack. Don't want to ruin anything else! Seeing what I can do today and, if nothing, off it goes to someone who has better tools and more knowledge than me. I've worked on my other CZs and Tanfos with no problems but this is a new one.
Thanks again for all the suggestions.