I've always used masons or floor chisels and flat pry bars. Never had a problem. Work carefully and pay attention to what you're doing and you'll have no trouble.

Good luck with your project;-)

Thanks so much...we have alot still to do (most of the project still ahead of us) and appreciate your input very much. Any future tips very much appreciated!

Is the plaster applied directly to the brick? That would be unusual.