Rear Wheel Axle

[singletracker]

I have a heck of a time getting the rear wheel axle out. It's like it is wedged in there, and it takes a lot more force to get it out than it should. I've resorted to a long punch and hammer, and I've pried it out little at a time with claw hammer until it is about 4 inches or so out then it pulls out easily.

The best thing is probably the long punch and hammer, but I'm worried about messing up the end of the axle. It's been like this since new.

Is there a trick that I'm missing?

2011 250 Race