I was taught that lugging the engine is the worst thing you can do to it. It never would have occurred to me to start off in second. I always start in first and run it up to an appropriate RPM. I have started in second by mistake - when coming to a stop in second and forgetting to shift back to first. Don't like it.

This, of course, does not apply in Low Range.

89 3L V6 5spd SWB, Aisin Manual Hubs, 2 (suspension) seater Raider in Wheeler, OR