Better Way To Remove an IC Chip

I’ve read a few posters’ methods on how to remove non-soldered IC chips but I’m yet remove one without breaking it in half (I take that back, if I use a razor on the pins 1st it works).This would be a great video tutorial if someone had the time but let me ask some questions.



1) Do you attack the pins holding the IC chip first?
2) If you use a flathead & hammer, do you place the circuit board in a vice? And do you hit it from the sides or front/back?
3) If anyone has ever used an ‘IC-chip puller’ does it work very well? Do you still need to detach the pins or does the tool do it for you?