I am trying to clean my VR and cannot get my operating handle out. This is my second VR (first was black then upgraded to Realtree) and I had the same problem with the other one. I have followed the directions in the owners manual and looked at several forums/reviews that say "just twist your wrist and pull it out". I've twisted and pulled with as much strength as I can. How does this thing come out?

with the gun unloaded...
push the shell release
pull the bolt back, it should stay back
remove the forearm
remove the barrel
HOLDING onto the bolt handle gently let the bolt come forward
now...
stick your left index finger in the receiver behind the bolt and gently push in on the firing pin WHILE you are pulling straight out on the operating handle with your right hand...pull hard dammit!!!

I wish mine was as snug as yours.

when reinstalling it you will most likely need to give it a tap with a rubber hammer to seat it all the way home into the ball detent that holds it in place.

I just purchased the same gun with the same issue. Called service and they suggested using your left index finger to slightly depress the bolt end about an 8th of an inch while pulling the bolt handle. Well, that did not work either, so I was going to send it in thinking I messed something up. But just tonight I tried again and it pulled out. There is a small ball bearing on the opposite end of the handle that is probably a bit snug and the only thing I think I did was, without trying to remove the handle, I twisted and wiggled it a couple of ties over the last two weeks. Tonight it came out like it should have. Keep on trying, yes pulling hard will help but I pulled damn hard and I ain't no girl!!! Just keep trying and one day it will pop. Remember to slightly depress the bolt head with the left hand finger, right hand pulling, twisting, wiggling the handle. They don't give you that tip in the book, not the best instructions. I would like to see a dvd or online you tube to help with the tear down. I have yet to tackle the bolt tear down - think those instructions are light also. Have to make my own You Tube when I figure out the bolt thing.

FWIW.....Being that I have arthritis in my wrists and hands,pulling the bolt handle is a little tough for me.What I do is take a piece of twine(sisal or jute)tie that around the bolt handle and viola.It will pull right out.I hope this helps.