Abstract: An apparatus, system and method are described for removing rods from wood mats, the apparatus configured to assume an open position and a closed position. The apparatus has machine body, an attachment at the rear end of the machine body configured to attach a hydraulic cylinder, a rod that is slidably positioned within the machine body a spring within the machine body, the spring compressable by the rod, levers rotatably attached to the body, each lever having an extension arranged to penetrate a hole on the machine body and to fit within a rod depression on the rod therethrough, jaws protruding from the machine body, each jaw having a curved shape and a pointed end, each jaw rotatably movable; and a jaw ring positioned within the machine body contacts the jaws, wherein the apparatus assumes the closed position to bring the pointed ends of the jaws together radially.