Staple remover
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A staple remover (or staple decleater) is a device that allows for the quick removal of a staple from a material without causing damage. Although a simple metal wedge can be used, this method tends to tear fragile papers. For light gauge staples, many people instead use a device consisting of two opposing wedges on a pivot. For convenience, this device has a spring that returns it to the open position after use.
Proper use of the opposing wedge staple remover should also be noted. Staples should be removed via the flat, top side of the staple, not the back "curled" side of the staple. This can however often result in ripping of some paper, so some prefer to loosen the staple via the "curled" side before proceeding to the front flat side for easy removal.
Some staplers, mainly small ones that are about 1.5 inches long contain an integrated staple remover. This is basically a piece of metal that is slid under each "curled" side of the staple and turned to loosen the staple.
[edit] Staple Remover Gymnastics
Office personnel, in particular, cubicle workers, sometimes fiddle with staple removers while talking on the phone. This practice developed into a more organized form of entertainment known as staple remover gymnastics. If an opposing wedge staple remover is placed near the edge of a desk, facing the occupant, it is possible to press down on it and release with just the right amount of force so that it will jump off the desk surface and land in nearly the same position. More skilled individuals can make the staple remover flip, bounce and do other tricks.
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