Is this a good price for pre-cut photo mats? and general question about matting.?

Question

This is the first time I'm buying pre-cut mats for photos, so I'm trying to figure this stuff out on my own. I found a clearance sale on 9"x12" double-matted photo mats from mat shop.com--the price is $42.00 for 25 mats (which is $1.70 per mat). The website says they're selling at clearance because they have an odd-sized opening (but just happens to be the dimensions I'm looking for). So here are a some questions.
1) Is this a good deal considering these are good quality mats (not sure if they are archival quality though).
2) Is there a clear distinction between archival and non-archival mats, or are there various gradings?
3) I read a DIY book about matting where the author said to be careful about cutting your own mats because it can lead to carpal tunnel. (I just got OVER carpal tunnel from typing so I'm not to keen on an activity that's going to put me at risk.

Answer 1

That's a very good deal for pre-cut photo mats. I usually go to Hobby Lobby for my mats, and they're generally $1.99 for the smallest most basic mats (and up from there). I don't know anything about archival and non-archival mats. Sorry. As far as cutting your own mats, you'd have to be cutting a LOT of mats to get carpal tunnel. Just know that you need a professional mat cutter to make them look good. Stick to buying pre-cut--especially at that price.