I decided to pull off the barrel to make it easier just incase I attempted to melt out the bullets or what not.
There is obvious bulging under the gas block because I had to beat it to get it to move. In fact I'm going to have to cut off the gas block. I had to cut the gas tube as well in order to get the barrel nut off.
So the barrel is toast. thanks for all that offered suggestions. I'll have to get a new barrel when I have more money.
I think I may mount the barrel in my reloading room as a reminder
