Need advice about changing shocks

Ok, I've looked up and down a shit load of forums and can't find the info I need so here goes.

I simply want to replace the front shocks on my Civic. I'm not trying to modify them or anything, just stock shocks. I know how to take off the assembly and take the springs off but will I need a special tool to pull the shocks off? Thanks for any help yall can give me.