How do I cut 1/2" rubber mats?

[maple_leaf_eh]

I have cut scrap tires with a reciprocating saw and a grinder, and was unimpressed by the results.

I may use two straight edges clamped down, and just get going with handsaws and knives. Whatever works.

[r.morrison]

Number 1: I agree with Rob. You'll go through a few blades cuz he's right about the new blades. Number 2: The smart guy would go to PRINCESS AUTO..."man's answer to every problem in life" and buy the Non Slip Tread that they sell in a roll and you can cut to any length. And it goes on sale once in a while. You can probably order it on line.
My 2 cents.....Robert

[Jesse Browning]

Rubber, unless it has the formed surface like a tire is extremely slippery. Even rough rubber will be slippery if its in the shade and moss grows on it. The house I moved to had shredded rubber mats. They were slick as banana peels.

[REL]

It's surprising what a water-jet machine can cut, and very precisely too. Some even do bevels.

[Matthew P]

I've done tires (7.50x20 for a trailer next time I'll just outsource the removal to the tire shop, paint the rims and come back...) and stall mats for horses. Those are circa 3/4" thick. You're two options, and each work in their own way is the utility knife or a reciprocating saw. The utility knife seems daunting at first and you think it'll take forever, but you'll be surprised how fast you can cut the rubber. The other way is to use a sawsall, jig-saw or similar at slow speed. As mentioned previously heat is your enemy here.

Matt

[jack neville]

If you are cutting rubber with a blade use plenty of soapy water .

[Lynn Eades]

I have had carrier radiator mounts water cut, but in this case, I would look for a tyre grooving tool to hot cut the pieces. Just a suggestion, as I have no experience. Otherwise back to what Rob said.
What about stapling some chicken netting over the steps for grip? does that work in "cold and wet"