Originally Posted by
merziac
Maybe so, not the point, there's value in learning the drill for when it is a valuable specimen that you do want to save with the least amount of damage that doesn't cooperate.
This can make good practice when the stakes are low to acquire the tools, learn to use them and get it right.
Using a hook wrench is about 95% buying a decent hook wrench and about 5% common sense. Unfortunately most bicycle hook wrenches are pretty bad and you may very well do less damage with channel locks than with a bad hook wrench. Channel locks can also be modified to engage with the notches and offer improved control. Compare the cheap and so-so Park Tool hook wrench, compared to the excellent and relatively expensive Hozan lockring pliers. VAR also made lockring pliers. So if you want to do it "right" I'd still err towards channel locks, just with the jaws ground down like the Hozan.