Abstract: A hand tool that may be useful for removing staples includes two jaws pivotally engaged to one another and including respective handles extending from each jaw. Each jaw may include a bearing surface and a lifting surface converging with the bearing surface to provide a wedge. Each jaw may also include a medial surface and a lateral surface converging with the medial surface. The converging lifting surface and bearing surface in combination with the converging lateral surface and medial surface may provide a point on each jaw to facilitate engaging under a staple.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for extracting a doctor blade from paper making machines including a clamping and locking mechanism that tightens as more force is applied to the device in the extraction process. The apparatus may include a hollow steel handle or outer shaft, a locking linkage shaft slidably disposed within the steel outer shaft, and a rotatably mounted gripping mechanism coupled to the linkage. A trigger mechanism attached to the linkage shaft causes the gripping mechanism to rotate against the doctor blade, gripping the blade between contact surfaces. A safety locking ring may be provided for securing the linkage shaft in a closed position. As force is applied against the extractor, the gripping action is increased by the frictional action exerted by the gripping mechanism on the doctor blade.