I've never failed to remove a 700 barrel without damage to the action or the barrel. (since using these methods).
I have a set of these:
and
Search Action wrench and action vise at
http://www.midwayusa.com
I start by putting some "Liquid Wrench" penetrating oil into the front action screw hole and the front scope holes a couple of days before attempting the removal. Then try with the action wrench. I clamp the barrel either with the wood blocks in the action vise above or use a small hydraulic press with lead blocks. Either way I use a little rosin (as used in weight lifting) on the wood or lead blocks. It takes a fare amount of clamping force to prevent the barrel from slipping. Harder materials (aluminum or steel) clamps will mar the barrel. Always clamp the barrel at it's largest diameter, or as close as you can.
My body weight on the handle gives about 300 ft-lbs torque and usually does the job, can get 400+ with a short pipe as a cheater bar. I never hammer on it. If it's particularly stubborn I heat the action by pouring boiling water on it (limits to 212F which won't hurt the action's heat treatment) while pouring ice water on the barrel to shrink it. I've never had one fail to come off with that treatment and it does no harm to the barrel or action. A propane torch can ruin the heat treatment if you get carried away and always damages the finishes. Water conducts heat to the metal quicker than an open flame.
They're smearing something red on them now. The last one I did took a hefty cheater bar and a propane torch on the barrel just past the receiver. Good luck 
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