embarrassing question! (shift knob removal)

['96-Z51]

Oh boy, this is embarrassing....I've removed and replaced plenty of shift knobs from various cars over the years, but I'm stumped about removing the knob from my '96 six-speed (I'm having to reattach a loose leather boot and want to completely remove the console/boot to get proper access; i already have the console off). I've carefully pried out the knob's centre cap, and I see no clue underneath. I don't want to start trying to unscrew the knob, worried that I might damage something if that's not the correct way. Please help!

 

[G Winter]

There is a wedge driven from the top. you need to pull that out with a vise grip. pulls out very hard. you then can screw it off.

 

['96-Z51]

Thanks for responding, G. I wondered if that was some kind of wedge, but I figured I'd rather get advice first before wrecking something.