Inside blowout preventer release tool having an upper section and a tubular lower section. The upper section includes a pair of longitudinal members defining a central open region, and a formed lifting feature accepting a manipulator. The lifting feature is positioned such that when the release tool body and an inside blowout preventer connected thereto are lifted by the rig hoist they are easily moved over, aligned with, and connected with a working drillpipe while minimizing possibility of slipping off cables or chains. The lower section includes a threaded end mating with a mating end of an inside blowout preventer, a central longitudinal bore to accept a length-adjustable release rod, and an upper end formed to mate with the upper section. Slots in each longitudinal member may define one or more manipulating handles for a rig worker, machine, or tool, or a pair of generally horizontal hand holds are provided.