It should just slid in to the piston.

It doesn't, so I guess I have to bend it. Also where would one get a clip for his brake pad? Is it even possible to buy a single brake pad?

I doubt it. You can try returning it.

Good idea. Advance FTL.

I'm wrapping things up here, just a quick question about brakes in general---do I have to worry if I didn't compress the brake piston that last .5mm as long as the brakes fit? the "default" position is fully compressed inside the caliper (unless it senses a lack of resistance, in which case it will push out until enough resistance is felt, and stay there), and it pushes out when I use the brakes----correct?

That wont mater at all. It will come back out when you press the brake and stay in that location.

What'* your school of thought on bedding brakes in?

You don't need to bed disk'*. Just drive normally and brake normally the first few times to wear off the thin layer of protection on the pad, and the rotor if you replaced them.

Cool, thanks for the help with this. My first ever repair is a success and she drives beautifully now. Quit while I'm ahead or pre-emptively replace some brake lines now, what do you say

Personally, I don't skimp on brakes. If it looks like it might need it, change it.