I dunno - I think as long as you're careful about setting it up (I followed the mfg's specs to the letter), checking it out, and researching the model's tendancies, there isn't really that much to be afraid of. Now obviously, something like a war-bird is going to have a lot more "pucker-factor" than my Tiger. But obviously one wouldn't attempt to fly something like that until one's experience and recovery skills are compatible with the model.
I still get wobbly knees... even on trainers.
You never know what they're going to do until they're in the air. I've had several go crazy and needed huge trims for some reason, even though they check out perfect on the ground, even knowing the flight characteristics from manufacturer/previous experience. I've also maidened a few "pieces of s***" that flew perfectly, needing nothing. Ya never know.
Warbirds aren't a big deal, just keep the speed up.