I removed the barrel today, and worked on some of the other cosmetic's.
It was actually pretty easy compared to what other fellas have been through, I sprayed it down with Pen, a super penetrator, and tapped the barrell with a 3lb hammer, and stood it up in a corner overnight. An 18 inch Rigid pipe wrench on the barrel, and a huge Cresent in the action, a little heat and bingo.
I didn't have to apply very much heat, it seemed to pop right when I settled the torch on the reciever,( probably didn't even need it)it was cool to the touch as I screwed the barrel out. The Pen did its job.
Now I need to hook up with the smith, and get some direction for this new project.... any takers?...