In theory I agree that the electric starter shouldn't be needed, but it makes life so much easier. Hand starting requires either a lot of trial and error to get a feel for it, or it requires having someone to show you how to do it. A wireless setup with either a 10 cell NiCd pack or a 4 cell lipo is best, assuming you have the charger for it. Wiring to a 12 volt lead battery works too if that's what you have. Harbor Freight sells a drill battery and charger than many have wired up with good results. Resist the urge to rig up an electric drill for it though, as your wrist doesn't have the right kind of strength that way to resist the torque.

Back to your engine issues: Do your bearings feel smooth and slick? If not, that is likely the cause of your idling problems. I was assuming a new engine in your original post but if it's old and been sitting up for a long time the bearings could be rusty or gummed up with old castor. Both will cause increased friction which kills your idle and reduces top end RPM.