[Roadsters] throttle body backfire -- enough to take my fingers off?

[nmleeds at mindspring.com]

All,

Still trying to start my car.  And, for reasons to numerous to explain(history of jamming), I've been tempted to lift my SU's by hand while I'm trying to start the car. The only risk is that the car has been backfiring through the throttle body.  Not often, but enough to make me concerned that if I stick my hands in there during a start that I'll lose a finger in the bargain.

Any thoughts? What care should I take in handling a throttle body backfire -- are these strong enough to turn tools into weapons?  Take a finger off? . . . 

Nathaniel 
'69 SU, Status: don't ask.