Easier? Maybe with a small jig saw. Smaller blades would probably make it easier. But I didn't have one, and I wasn't gonna buy one for this.

As far as safer, I was patient and used just enough tension for the rubber to start giving. And I stayed on the side away from the pull. I fully trust my knot tying capabilities as a firefighter I have to be good with them as I might have to trust my life to a knot I tied in the dark with gloves on.

Sent from my XT1635-01

Tyler/T-Unit