Cracking the evacuation tip is my usual method for "modern" era tubes (those that have some form of integral implosion protection). Have used the anode button method a ew times, as well.
An older tube without any tension band or bonded faceplate can really be a bomb if it suddenly lets go, and I wouldn't want to be right next to it if it did. I would suggest putting the tube inside a plastic trash bag, then a HEAVY cardboard box. Seal the box, and then pop the envelope with a thin metal rod piercing the side of the box.
A pellet gun or slingshot from a decent (40-50') distance makes a nice science demonstration, if you have a safe place to do it (and the ability to cleanup the glass afterwards).
