You don't need a barrel vise unless you really want one. You can use just an action wrench and barrel nut wrench. You won't need both an action wrench and barrel vise. If you are afraid of scratches bring on the tape. Hardest part to all this is just learning to give the nut wrench a good stiff wack. It's kind of like pulling off a bandaid. You are better just going for it. Lol