CV Boot DIY procedure questions

[Dupersenior]

I'm getting ready to do replace the front outer CV boots (both sides) next weekend, and I have a couple of questions about the process for those who have some experience with it. I've read a ton of different DIYs on xoutpost and other places, and it seems like there are a lot of options on how to do it.

I've seen the DIY that removes the driveshaft from the differential, and then pulls out the whole axle with the steering knuckle still attached. I'd rather not do that though, because my inner boots look fine and I'd rather not mess with them. So I'll be going the regular way of driving the CV joint stub out from the steering knuckle, and then repairing the joint from there.

My first question is, how much of the suspension do I need to remove before I can drive the axle out of the steering knuckle? Xoutpost's "official" DIY (here) calls for removing the brake caliper and rotor, and all suspension and steering components attached to the steering knuckle, so that when you drive out the CV joint stub, the knuckle is completely off the car. At the other extreme, it's been mentioned in other threads that you can simply remove the lower control arm from the subframe, and that will allow enough movement to drive out the CV joint stub. What are the disadvantages to just unbolting the lower control arm, and leaving everything else intact? Is it just to get more room to work with, or is it easier to drive out the axle if everything else is removed? I'll have the car up on a lift, so if it's just a question of getting more space, I can probably get away with leaving most of the suspension intact.

Second question:
I've seen some people mention to punching the CV joint stub out from the steering knuckle with an air hammer, or even a sledgehammer and drift. Is there any risk to doing it this way? The Bentley Service Manual specifically says not to pound on it, but it seems to work for some people. Ideally, I'll rent the hub puller that bolts into the lug nut holes in the wheel hub, but if I can't find it, I'd rather not use an arm-style puller and risk screwing up the dust shield.

Third question: any tips on driving the cv joint stub back into the steering knuckle?

Whew, that was a long post. If you don't feel like responding to all 3 questions, the first one (about how much I need to disassemble) is the most important.

Thanks!