Skyhook, thanks for sharing the story. I know you are upset, but as you and all of us here have stated, no one got hurt.
Just to clarify though, does this situation leave the firearm in a somewhat loaded condition?
Is that what you are saying? The slide is locked up, yet the breech is empty, but were you able to pull the magazine out, and unload the firearm?
You can leaglly ship you firearm to and from the factory through either FED-Ex, or UPS.
It must be shipped next day.
I always write on a seperate piece of paper that a gun is in the box if the counter person asks.
Normally, I don't write in on the packing slip, and neither do they, but insure that it is adult signature required.
Usually if any one notices the address the package is going to they realize a gun is in there, or at least question it.
The reason I write it down on a piece of paper is not to offend any non gun person in line behind me.
Buy the insurance, and track the package.
They other alternative is to drive yourself to the factory.
You're in the same state.
Good luck with the outcome.