Share 'Sideways fret removal tool preferences'

I might have a 70's Strat on my bench in the near future and I wanted to see what you all use for sideways fret removal.  If there is a specialty tool from Stewmac or LMII i'm not aware of it yet.  Also, how probable is it that I will need to level the board, refinish, etc?  I of course would prefer avoid this but i'll do it if it means getting the job done right.  Unless the board is way out of…