Fireplace rear width too short for insert dimension

[Twozeroone]

hello,

Looking at installing a Vermont casting Merrimack insert into my fireplace. All dimensions are good except the rear width. The rear width is 23” across. The insert says it needs 25”. At 18” deep the width is 24”. Has anyone handled this issue successfully before? If so, do you have advice?

Thanks! Scott

 

[missedbass]

Get the Montpelier, its rear width is just over 22"

 

[Smoked]

If you already have the stove, maybe pop the fire bricks out? I had to remove a few around the damper to open that space up. Or you could get a masonry disk for an angle grinder? Oh, and a really good dusk mask.