The professional uses a Stortz slate ripper. A one piece forging provides years of use that you will not get with a 2 piece welded construction. Slate rippers with welds will fail eventually and you'll find yourself wondering you didn't spend a few extra dollars to get the right tool for the job. The re-enforced handle will withstand a beating over its lifetime. The tool is equally useful on tile shingles and cedar shake. Often imitated but never duplicated!
A slate ripper is used to slide underneath broken pieces of slate and hook the nail that secures the slate. By hitting the handle with a hammer, the nail is pulled out, thus allowing the slate to be removed.