I've started my Thunder Tiger 46 Pro that way... It's called a spinner start. Rotate by hand the prop/spinner counter clockwise until you feel it come up against the compression. Then take the spinner and smartly spin it clockwise (backwards) through bottom dead center so it "hits" the start of the compression stroke on the other side. With the battery lead connected and the correct amount of prime in the combustion chamber, it should fire in the opposite direction you spun it against the compression and continue running in the correct direction. At no time do you turn the prop through the complete compression stroke.

It works easiest with a ball bearing engine and a largish size prop (provides a better flywheel effect).

The control line combat guys have a variation of this technique perfected. They run highly modified, high compression .36 engines on bladder pressurized fuel systems with tiny props. Electric starters are NOT allowed. They'll rotate the prop counter clockwise until it just touches against the compression stroke as described above. The prop is adjusted on the crankshaft so the blades are horizontal when this position is achieved. When the judge yells, "GO", they'll strike the inboard prop blade down hard with a well protected finger(s).

AMA Fast Combat is truly an impressive sight (and sound) - both teams primed in their launch stance and the caller counts down, "15", "10", "5", "GO!" The mechanic hits the prop, yanks off the battery lead and both planes instantly jump into the air, screaming along at 120 MPH with unmuffled .36 engines turning 27,000 RPM. Once the airplanes achieve 180º separation going straight and level, the horn sounds and the match is on. These beasts can generate up to 50g's in lighting quick turns as they furiously maneuver for a "kill" by cutting their opponent's streamer. Matches can be over in a blink. Midair collisions are common. Competitors typically come to a meet with up to 30 airframes.