It is akward. I use a spanner and often a quick bop with a rubber hammer on the end just to get it started. Some folk recon it's much easier if you remove the headlamp, also get the expansion tank out of the way.
Bent the head? Is that because I've had to put a lot of force on it, or because I've had to leave it with 7 bolts loosened by 1/2 a turn and 3 done up?
The head bolt didn't seem to take any damage, just the socket! Couldn't believe it myself
Pretty sure we've got a breaker bar in the garage...
What's the difference between an impact socket and a normal one, it is just stronger?
But it's good practice to skim anyway -- means the head will be flat and cleaner. Doesn't cost much at all.