A:
I unhook the rubber bands as they will limit your playing abilities. IMHO the only reason to use the rubber bands is to help a beginner get the right angles & to gobble. Don't gobble unless you are 110% sure you are the only hunter in your area.
As for cutting, turn the call on it's side and hold the handle away from your body. Hold the handle between your index & middle finger and work quick very short "pops" on the sound board with the paddle. It takes a little practice but playing the call for cutts & yelps is much easier when holding the call this way. Hope it helps!