I just fixed it by removing it and putting it in by sliding it in from the side. To answer your question, it wasn't easy to get out or get back in. I think it was made to be slid in, I must have never put it in right.

I think I'll buy a new one, though, because with it in properly the .012 gauge strings vibrate against the first couple frets.

that's cool that it slid in smoothly. .012s are kind of big though, did you have the action properly setup for strings that size before? or is it just some new strings you slapped on there after fixing the nut.

i'd try adjusting the action / truss rod before replacing pieces. you know how to do this yet?

Well, I started using .012s recently, and they worked great before I fixed the nut, I mean, the action was set quite high (like the strings were far from the neck) and it still is, the strings play nicely everywhere except for on the first few frets.

Yeah, I know how to do this. What would you recommend I try? More bow or hump?

i'm thinking you'd need to bow it out just a little, it'll result in slightly higher action midneck but it should eliminate the buzzing. just remember to keep checking after every 1/4 turn on the truss rod.

Well, that definitely helped, but it still buzzes a lot -- now only on the first fret.

Is there a way to raise the nut, like some paper under it (or would that not be a good idea)?

the best way to raise a nut is to make a new one, sadly. you can shim them with brass and stuff, but thats for locking nuts really, and will affect the tone.

that looks like a faulty piece

cool story bro.