I really don't think you guys are up to owning a Tiger.   
 The fact you are recounting horror stories shows a lack of commitment to ownership.  
 cos to own a Tiger you have to be a Tiger and man up to 
be the starter motor otherwise you ain't going nowhere, you're just a lot pussies  
 Trust me when I say, they are much easier and safer to start from in front, and I have tried both methods.
I have hand started metal props probably no more than twice, didn't like the sharp trail edge of the prop at all.  As a Tiger starter motor probably more than 50 times, of course that was 35-40 year ago when I was much younger.