You can try it without the instructions from the manual if you'd like. Remove mag, push slide back until notch in slide (just below Wesson on the left side, see my pic) is lined up with rounded part of take-down lever. From right side, push take down lever pin out the left side. Grab the lever while holding the slide and you should be able to pull it all the way out. Now gently let the slide come forward and gently pull the slide off the front of the frame. Now you can remove the guide rod and spring and then remove the barrel, carry on......