I got a battery 1/2" drive impact wrench from Aldi's Titanium power tools series which runs off their exclusive 20V lithium ion batteries you get separately. It has had no trouble getting the blade carrier off three different Victas so far, and no trouble putting them back on either. I wouldn't be without one. No more blocks of wood needed. I got it discounted to $70 with the battery and charger costing $35.00, again on substantial discount.

Ahh, if only victa had kept producing the thumblatch catcher series, they would be in better shape today!