A release tool (100) is provided for an end effector (40) with a pair of jaw members (50,60) and a drive beam assembly (70) configured for axial movement through the pair of jaw members. The release tool (100) includes an elongate body member (120), a gripping assembly (130), and a release bar (110). The gripping assembly (130) is secured to the elongate body member (120) and is configured to secure the elongate body member (120) to the end effector (40). The release bar (110) is supported by the elongate body member and is axially movable relative to elongate body member. The release bar (110) is configured to engage a beam of the drive beam assembly (70) to retract the beam to a proximal position when the beam is disposed in a position distal of the proximal position.
