rep, verk, JDT, thanks for the technical explanation. FWIW, I have a rubber-coated BFH, technically known as a dead-weight mallet. It is a necessary tool for disassembling (and re-assembling) a GT6 transmission. I have used it for removing FW's, once for removing cranks, and once for loosening a BB lockring. But I have been reluctant to use it on bearing cones.
I think I will postpone that particular experience until it becomes absolutely necessary.