I've heard (and heeded) strong advice about bending on mains voltage. But does "mains" refer strictly to AC current, instead of DC. In simpler words, is it any safer bending something running on a DC output adapter? I'm sick of spending money on flippin' C batteries. I'm tempted to test the safety out for myself, but decided to hear your stories first.
Generally "wall wart" adaptors have some sort of isolation between input and output. If you don't get a shock off the DC plug, it should be safe to work on equipment powered by it.
There is still the chance that you may have some weirdass earth fault that leaves the earth on half the sockets in your workshop at a high voltage relative to the other half, or some such crazyness. Be careful.
I use a Stabalised Variable Voltage Power Supply 0 - 15v (The type you find in schools)
It works wonders for me. Luckly, where i work means i can PAT test anything i want :)
I recommend them.