>>64203990
Took me a while to comprehend that but I think I understand what you're saying. The link moves freely with just the barrel and link in hand. However, when the gun is fully assembled, it does seem that the barrel is prevented from moving fully up to that mark even if I use a tool to pull up using the extractor cutout or push the slide forward by hand. Do remember the slide stop cross pin has a slight bow and gouge in it from the last time I shot it, though. With barrel and pin in hand, I can shine a flashlight behind it and see a little light around the pin in the link but not much.

Probably going to go to sleep soon and answer later in the day. Thanks for the help, anon.