Mine have all been very tight and difficult to remove especially the first time. As you note a jewelers screw driver I assume you found out the hole to depress the extractor channel is deceiving and much smaller than it looks like. That usually is 90% of the battle.
Short of sending it back I'm not sure what else you can do to address the issue. If in fact it's out of spec they will replace, if not at least they might replace the plate although it might take time to get another in the burnt bronze finish. Can't really say.
At least you might send a photo and explain your issues and see what options they provide.
In Memory of Paul "Dietrich" Stines.
Dad: Say something nice to your cousin Shirley
Dietrich: For a fat girl you sure don't sweat much.
Cue sound of Head slap.
RIP Muggsy & TMan
"If you are a warrior legally authorized to carry a weapon and you step outside without that weapon, then you become a sheep, pretending that JOCKO will not come today."