Cyccommute,
The extra step is no biggie. These grips were on for almost 40 years at the time. I did not want to damage them. I asked the same question some time ago and this is how I was told to do it.
It worked, no problem. Just make sure you use a small thin flatblade screw driver and take your time. No damage to the bar or grip. No special tools required. Came right off.