The guide rod isn't seated just where it needs to be. It's kind of deceiving as it's not perfectly centered but off set just a bit.
Sometimes I have trouble getting the slide to go back on the frame, just move the recoil assembly a tad and it goes on fine.
I don't often end up with what you have but once in awhile.
The fact that you take it apart and try again it's ok kind of makes my theory work, works for me too.
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."