Benjamin 347 1972 feedback help on barrel brass

Seeking knowledge and input here regarding my boyhood 1972 347. After 35 years in closet, decided to do the preplacement kit. However, when removing the pins, the plunger was all the way down and I didnt realize the torque on the extending arm actually sliced and bent a small piece of the metal barrel just above the barrel air inlet hole. At first was thinking (crap) but will use a nail punch with light taps.

But I wanted as much input from any experienced with Benjamin Brass barrel or light brass in general before I mess with it at all. thank you any replies. Initially thinking tapping back and maybe couple beads on outside with brass/metal epoxy. This area, I believe, will be covered by the pump handle.

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I would tap it into place, smooth it out on the inside and call it a day.
thx Jim, do you happen to know if worst case scenario and it breaks off... will it impact entrainment negatively do you think? slits are so close to that hole that there is a high chance it will break off and left with about a 3mm sq gap there. hoping if the cup and felt get past there each pass that will be a non issue.