Dave is right. I've tried that technique and it works.
Also, to "remove" the shutdown bang, you can ease off the clutch while holding the brake until the engine dies. Apparently the idle slows to the point that the engine isn't pulling enough vacuum for the carb to draw any fuel. No fuel = no afterfire.
But, if you're like me, I like to watch the end of the exhaust at night when I shut her down. I get a small pop and a little fireworks show.