Ok, so I've messed up somehow. Previous tinkering has been no problem but I recently gathered some new parts for my 9mm Colt Commander (series 80) and have successfully gotten the factory thumb safety stuck in the "On" position and can not get it deactivated to strip the frame back down.
With the grip panels, MSH, and sear spring removed I can see the thumb safeties engagement with the sear and freely manipulate the sear with a dental pick so it does not seemed to be binding there. Hammer is back. Thumb safety detent does not seem to be an issue.
It went together easy enough so it seems it should come apart but I'm obviously missing something and I don't have a gunsmith nearby I trust with it.
I admit I am whipped. Any suggestions?