I wouldn't necessarily start out with CMH, just because it doesn't feel like a strong trick to spectators. Even if you include them, (I believe it is a Michael Ammar idea, but I don't know for sure) there is still a lack of reactions. It seems to be more of a puzzle then magic. I suppose it's possible to pull it off, but it depends on the situation. Making it look magical can be very angle sensitive. I might start out with it, but not only in some situations.
Personal experience means I really don't agree with this. People LOVE Crazyman's Handcuffs. It's incredibly strong. I always start with it. Very often, in casual situations, it's the only trick I do. I have shown work colleagues/friends etc many tricks over the years, and the only one I ever get specifically requested is 'that rubber band trick'. The killer part is when you do it in their hands. Don't ever leave that part out!
Not sure where your getting angle issues from either, it's pretty much a perfect, no effort, angle proof close up trick.
What I often do, is leave the bands around the boxed pack of cards. Then, if I am going to show something, I'll toss the deck on the table and say 'have you ever seen people do magic with these before?' People assume you mean the deck and say 'yes'. I then go, "No, not the cards, these...' and pull the bands off the deck. This creates interest. You're all of a sudden doing something unexpected. Everyone has seen a card trick, very few people have seen a rubber band trick. That way, at least in their eyes, I am 'something different'*
Another thing is I just leave them on my wrist (like a lot of magicians do). Lay people then often ask what they're for. I say 'magic'. I've never not been asked to do a trick after saying that!
Anyway, don't want to hijack this thread with a discussion about CMH, but just a few thoughts...
Rev
*yes, I know I'm not the only one who does rubber band magic, but how much of it do you think layman have seen!