I started this hobby when chicken sticks were the norm, 35 years later I have been hit by the prop countless times, but I have to say once I bought my electric starter I don't think I have hit it ever again, I'm knocking on wood right now,, the fact is, everyone giving advice on this thread knows what their talking about, and there is no fail safe way to start these things except don't be in a hurry and make sure your completely aware of what you are doing at ALL times, and still there are no guarentees, It hurts like hell when you get bit, I know the pain all to well, there is nothing like a fresh blade slicing into the finger and stopping the prop on a 25 degree morning with Nitromethane on the fingers, Thats what they make Zap & CA for. The stupidest things happen for the dumbest reasons, it doesn't even have to be something you did, Things happen,,,, Pay attention and whenever possible be behind the plane for anything your doing after the motor is running. I have had my motor running and been behind my plane just letting it warm up, everything looks great and the prop just goes flying off the front of the engine. all of our club members have witnessed such things and have been bitten,, its part of the hobby, Expect it always and never let your guard down for 1 second.

The fear of getting hit by the prop has never kept me grounded, but it has made me very careful and respectful of the power it posseses.

Happy Flying and Safe Starting, Be affraid, be very affraid, but don't let it stop you from the great times this hobby is....