Hand Swinging
Aircraft that had to be hand started were all tail draggers, had wooden props that were fitted on the engine to give the optimum position for swinging,and the 'swinger' properly trained.This used to be of the 'swing and walk away' operation that made it as safe as possible in the circumstances, and also required the presence in the cockpit of someone trained in the procedure.
The 'emergency' swinging of a metal prop on a nosewheel machine is possible as we know, but can require two hands,and because of the height factor rarely allows a 'walk away' motion.The consequences of a mishap in the operation really should be borne in mind before undertaking it,and then a 'jump' or battery change considered.Better a half hour delay than 'playing with props'.