Yes, you are correct, they should warn you about all the possibilities that could happen.
I run into similar problems with other parts and had to "jury rig" the installation.
One thing I kind of like is to watch a video on installation of parts, that really helps. At least you know if you are heading for a problem.
It is kind of nice to have a hardware store which carries metric chrome bolts which has help me in the past a great deal or metric stainless steel bolts.
The handle looks good and I am sure you did a neat job getting everything to fit.
Rosy