Estes Plasma Probe Build Part 9 Fin Dowels

The 1/8" diameter dowel was sanded smooth with 400 grit then sealed  with some old varnish.
I don't bother getting out a brush, just dip a paper towel in the varnish and wipe it on.

After drying the dowel was sanded smooth with 400 grit.

The dowel is almost 9" long. The instructions say to cut it into four equal lengths so each piece will be just under 2 1/4" long.

You could cut the dowel with a razor saw, but on a 1/8" dowel it's easier to use a razor blade.
TIP: Don't just roll the dowel under the blade, chances are the blade will travel down the dowel and you'll get a spiral cut. Mark the cut lengths with a pencil.
Start the cut but only roll around the dowel towards you for 1/2 turn.
Go back to the pencil mark starting point and roll the blade away from you.
Doing the cut "half and half" helps get the rolled cut line meet up.

The forward end of the four dowels are rounded with 220 grit followed by 400 grit.