Quick crankshaft pulley question

I don't want to DIY for various reasons - the garage is worried because Autodata or whatever they use says a special tool is required to remove the pulley.

1. Is this just a locking tool to stop it turning while the bolt is being unscrewed, in which case there are various standard techniques like an air gun, a sprag through one of the slots, etc?

2. Does the pulley come off easily by hand once the bolt is out?

Yes the special tool is just a long bar with a couple of holes in it to hold the pulley. A proper impact driver will undo the nut, or there are other methods that don't require any special tools. Once the bolt is out the pulley comes off very easily.

Thanks, so an impact driver on its own should Just Work and, if not, jam the pulley with something?  Should be standard garage techniques, then.

There is the starter motor technique endorsed by Scotty Kilmer et al but AIUI there is a small risk of stripping the ring gear teeth or the starter pinion.