Just a suggestion, but in my opinion, you should never drop the slide using the slide release. You will wear it out! I recieved this tip from a gentleman who is older than dirt, and has been in charge of the range and law enforcement training at Olin/Winchester for many years. This guy knows more about 1911's (his particular love) than anyone I have ever met, and I respect his opinion/advice immensely. Always pull the slide back by hand and release to chamber a round! The other gentleman who is having trouble putting the slide stop back in without scratchin the frame; just take a small object and push the spring loaded plunger back in a little and slip the slide stop into place. Yeah, its a pain, but beats scratching your frame which is all too easy to do. A small knive blade tip, small screwdriver, pin punch, etc. will do nicely.