I tried my first rotary cutter right before I went to work at the salon I was working in still. It was Thursday, busiest day of the week. Left index tip also. Had my neighbor come over and help me. She brought her "Super Glue" Brand new tube. It was a long day at the salon but I got through it. Wore a glove on the left hand all day long. My finger nail was just long enough to put a finger guard on so I didn't have to rest on the tip. I have a pair of fisherman's fileting gloves and they work great. When I'm cutting I have my left hand covered. One thing I was happy I chose a piece of scrap to cut. Bloody mess all over it.