Why aren't the bridge pins on my guitar coming out?

Well, I've had this guitar for years, and I've never gotten into playing it. But now I am. I have to change the strings (idk if I HAVE too, but I am) but the bridge pins are being a ***** to pull out! I dont have the tool that does it (I probally should get one, but it might break when I try to use it, there that stuck in there) but I'm useing a rag and a pair of pliers. But that isn't working! I can't get any out. How can I get them to come out or whats wrong with them???