Is the "L" shaped bracket the original mast step that comes with the Cal -20 ? If it's the original bracket it sounds like you are removing the bolt and nut that holds the mast to the bracket ( about 3" up from the deck ) . DON'T DO THIS.There is another bolt and nut on the bracket , down close to the deck, this is the one that needs to be taken out to lower the mast, NOT the one attaching the mast to the bracket.Once u take this lower bolt and nut off the mast and half of the bracket will "pivot" allowing the mast to be lowered without the foot of the mast "shooting out "as u put it.Hope this helps !
Ted Sharplin, Fleet 38, Vancouver, B.C.