Large springs freak me out and I'll monkey with just about anything.

I was using an OTC strut spring compressor once (a bench mounted tool which basically contains and compresses the spring with the strut assembly out of the vehicle) and had the tool fly apart while I was compressing the spring. Fortunately I was unharmed but it did take a large half inch ratchet and rip it out of my hand and send it flying to the roof of the shop.

Guess my only advice is take it slow and be really careful. Definitely stay out of the line of fire.