How to best cut rubber anti-fatigue floor mats?
I have some 36 in x 36 in 2 in thick rubber mats I need to cut. I have access to circular saw, table saw, jig saw, hack saw, razor box cutter, hunting knife, chain saw, electric turkey carving knife (as someone suggested) and drimmel. I'm leaning toward the circular saw but don't know what blade (large or small teeth) or if I need soapy water as a lube. I'm afraid there will be significant smoke and sticking to the blade about a foot into the process. Someone also suggested NO2 or CO2 to freeze it first. Would like a professional looking cut. Suggestions?
I forgot to mention that I am cutting 6 inches off one side so I will have a 36x30 mat. So one straight cut the length of the mat.
These mats are either the rubber, or the expanded foam rubber like product. For the expanded, an electric carving knife works well. I've never tried it on the dense rubber before, but try it on the corner first.
For rubber, get out a large table or bench,,, plywood on a folding table works,
Then you have two choices,,,,
1. Clamp a straight edge, 1 x 2 will work, if you have a straight one, and use a propane torch and a hawk bill carpet knife. You can try sawing manually, but you have to have a tough enough straight edge to hold down the matt. Try the hack saw blade on a corner.
2. For electric saw, cover the mat with an old piece of plywood, so you make a sandwhich of plywood, mat, plywood, and then cut it. Small teeth make a cleaner cut, and the plywood chips help keep your teeth from fouling. It stinks, keep it outside.
I prefer the manual method with the torch and hawk bill. Less mess, more control, and less chance of messing up. Just remember, only heat the knife, not red glowing hot or it will take the temper out of the blade. You want it to cut, not melt the rubber. The heat just makes it slide though better.
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US $29.99
Home Improvement Projects & Tools : How to Change a Chain Saw Blade
Have you ever heard of the Saber Cut Saw? Do you even know what it is? In this article I will identity what a saber cut saw is, how it operates, who needs one and why, and its advantages and disadvantages.
What is a Saber Cut Saw & How does it Operates?
The saber cut saw is essentially a chain saw that runs on human power. Unlike a typical gas or electric chain saw that you control and maneuver while the motor or engine spins the chain performing the cutting action, the saber's cutting action is all done by you. It has a twenty four inch bi-directional blade with large strap saw handles at each end that holds the blade from twisting and allows you to keep a firm grip on it.
Operation:
To operate this saw take one hand, pass it through the handle loop from the inside out and then grip the handle. Then wrap the saw around tree trunk or limb to be cut so that both handles are side by side. Now pass your other hand through the handle loop and grip the handle. Next start cutting by pulling the chain back and forth with long even strokes; continue that motion until you have accomplished the task.
Specification: From the Manufacturer
·        Blade & handle clips: Black oxide coated steel Case
·        Color: Black
·        Weight (saw and case): 6 ounces (170.1g)
Who needs one and why?
This tool is so compact, light weight, strong and easy to carry you can take it with you on any outdoor adventure. It is great for mountain bikers, ATV and motorcycle riders, and 4x4 enthusiasts to clear off-road trails of fallen trees and limbs. If you trim your own trees this saw is for you to; whether trimming low tree limbs or high ones you will have no problem. For those high branches attach a rope or lanyard to each side of your saw and throw one side of the limb. For that family that goes to the Christmas tree farm every year to cut their own tree down this saw is for you too. Most importantly this saw can be used to cut materials for an emergency shelter for the serious outdoor adventurer whether they're a hunter, hiker, camper, back country skier or any other activity that puts you in the thick of it.
Advantages:
·        It's Light and compact and comes with a ballistic fabric case with belt clip making it easy to carry.
·        The bi-directional self cleaning blade makes cuts more effective and your labor less strenuous.
·        Easy to maintain its edge by using a standard chain saw blade sharpening kit.
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Disadvantages:
·        The labor of using the saw is strenuous compared to a power actuated chain saw.
Conclusion:
The saber cut saw is a serious survival tool for any outdoor enthusiast. It makes short work of any branch or tree limb that needs to removed. I believe it is an invaluable tool to have with you when out in the mountains or woods. Remember the best time to learn your lesson about being prepared is before something happens.
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Adam Sisterhen is the president of Your Personal Security Store and author of personal security and self defense articles. He is a proud advocate and a firm believer in personal security and self defense products that help protect you, your family and your loved ones.
To find the products talked about in this article and a wealth of information check these links below.
For the quality personal security and self defense products in this article visit http://www.yourpersonalsecuritystore.com/product/USSABER
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Regards, Adam Sisterhen
