I think I did a bad, bag thing.

[pinkbunny]

So, I was putting the rear cover back on my vz2008. I think I must have put it in at an angle. The left side is in the proper guide, but the right is hanging free, in fact riding over the bolt carrier. The rear cover has binded, and I can't use normal force to remove it. Before I do something stupid forcing it, is there any good way to do this? Force forward to get off, force down to force into place, some other method? I will of course pull out the retaining pin first.

[TJNewton]

Not aware of any trick, but I would just try some wiggling here and there, go slowly, and when you feel like Hulk want to smash, stop and have a beer.

That cover is very pliable metal (aluminum?) and if you tweak it getting it off, it will probably be pretty easily retweaked into serviceable shape.  On close inspection, the cover on my first VZ2008 was clearly damaged at some point, then reshaped prior to parkerization, with no detriment to function.

After you get it out, be sure that the striker spring guide rod isn't bent.  That piece has some play built into it, so even if it's bent, it can probably also be reshaped.

Good luck.  Take your time.

[RSR]

Try pulling the trigger?

I had problems with putting one of mine on and it was the striker spring bending when inserting rather than compressing...  Something to check out.

But yes, top cover edges go below the bolt carrier.  To not damage the metal, look at the plastic auto tools that harbor freight sells -- I use them for a lot more than just car panels: http://www.harborfreight.com/5-piece-auto-trim-and-molding-tool-set-67021.html

And I'd pry off the same way you put it on. 

A swift hit to the top of it with your palm would probably seat and not damage, but why risk if you can pry it off.