I used a set of
Jacobs Chuck removal wedges. They're made for a similar job, namely removing a drill chuck from the tapered spindle. You gently tap them in behind the crank from both sides and they ease it off 100% of the time with no damage. What's nice is that they're cheaper than most bicycle crank pullers.
Once you use them and see how well they work, you'll have no qualms about reusing that crank and BB if they're otherwise OK, and may never go back to bike crank pullers again.
One note, I forgot the right size, so you have to ask for one with the right slot to clear a 9/16" spindle.