The drums have never been removed. Will I be in for a real project? If I have to beat on them, can i cause any real damage? Or.......should I leave them alone?

That depends............I see by your post count you're an AF regular so I'm guessing you know your way around your car by know? If the brake shoes have not cut into the drum the drums should pop of after a few good wacks to the drum face with a hammer. Do not hit the lugs, if you hit a lug you can clean up the threads with a thread cutter or just replace the lug which is also pretty easy.

Post back how your project turned out!!!

The drums should have bolt holes in them that allow you to press the drums off the hub -- You just have to find the right size bolt. A little Rustoleum around the hub and studs will help too.