barewood dowells will work fine for most trainer applications. That's what I use. Now, granted, I wouldn't use one on a 100 dollar carbon fiber prop or anything like that, but for 2 dollar MAS props, it will get you started without spending another 10 or 15 bucks on a "cushioned" one. Also, if you really want the cusion, just wrap one end real good with duct, or electrical tape and that will do good. You'll need a 3/4 to 1 inch dowell. the 3/4 I think is best for props in the size range of 10-12 inches. Again, it's what I use and seems to work fine. Actually, I use an electric starter most of the time, but when I'm on the runway, and have a flame out, I pull the dowell out of my pocket (insert jokes here), and give her a flip, and usually am back up and running without taking it back to the pitts.