If you go with a chopper, I strongly suggest the Vario Feather Clipper. It's not cheap (around $50), but well worth it IMO. Don't use a hammer (you'll ruin the blade if you do)--just the heel of your hand--so it's not so noisy. It has a quill holder so your fingers are totally away from the blade, and it does a factory cut every time. Quick, easy, no stink. You can get them custom made for a particular cut, or they have gobs of designs to choose from. You can also get different blades for one chopper (cheaper) if you want.

Chad