[ecr959]

(Way) Could you use a magnetic pick up rod to get the nut out? They're not too expensive:

I like this idea best. I will try making one of these myself. If I buy one, it might not be long enough to reach the bottom part of the handlebars. I got the coathanger that I clipped to fish out the other parts. I can place a small button magnet on the end with rubber bands. This is easy and low-stress , like WW says.