Abstract: A staple removal tool includes an elongated handle mounting a U-shaped cover member supporting a U-shaped base member formed with a forwardly projecting staple lifter tongue. A crimping arm is pivoted on the base member for movement toward and away from the staple lifter tongue and is actuated by a hand lever located under the handle and pivotally secured at its forward end to the cover member. A spring loaded link member is attached at one end to the hand lever and at the opposite end to the crimping arm, whereby pivoting of the handle lever effects pivotal movement of the crimping arm. A crimping bar is secured to and spaced from the base member to receive the clamping arm between them. The staple lifter tongue engages under the bridge portion of a staple, such as a roofing staple, and leveraging of the handle pulls the staple from its wood anchor.