I had never worked on a firearm till I found CZ. It can be unnerving the first time.
If worried about the finish, you can always put a couple layers of painters tape around the work area to help protect the finish.
All I have for a vise is one of those ones that screw into a table. It can be moved to different angles and works great when you need a third hand. I don't use it for smacking out pins.
Ended up purchasing a bench block from CZC (or a chunk of 2x4 with a couple holes drilled in it works also.) with the bench block I clamp the slide or frame down with a quick release squeeze clamp to the table. Keeps everything rock solid, and don't have to worry about slippage.
The best piece of advise I can give (which I read on this forum first), is to give yourself plenty of time. As you work on these it becomes easier, but if you start to get frustrated, just walk away for a bit[emoji6]
TNman, glad you like the results. BUT, CGW really should add a disclaimer on their site. ::::
Once you try the Cajun Magic, you'll only want more. Tweaking your pistol can be almost as addicting as shooting them. You've been warned. [emoji2]