Rebuilding master cylinder - need help

I am trying to take apart the master cylinder on my 1975 Honda CB360T. I am having a heck of a time trying to remove the circlip that holds the plunger. I did purchase the special snap-ring pliers by Motion Pro, but I just can't seem to grab the rings on the circlip. Someone on this board must have some kind of a trick to getting that thing out.

By the way, I think the guy who designed it should get a swift kick to his nuts.

Thanks for any help/advice.

Cheers