I used a plastic coffee can to lay out my d-cut, seem to be ok. I had an extra ride plate. SOO I read all I could about this procedure, and the thread about what to use to cut it. I decided to try my jig saw with a metal blade. After laying it out I started cutting it. It cut like butter. It looked great. I was all puffed up and proud of myself. THEN....I realized I had d-cut the WRONG end. ****&&^(*&)_(&)( , so I took it to the local welding shop and had them weld the d back in. and I then cut the right end. I got to try the new and improved plate this week-end I like it. It seams to me it has eliminated some of my high speed porpousing(sp) almost like adjusting the trim, and I can carve a little better without the rear of the ski sliding out.