Abstract: A method of increasing the resistance of delicate, elongated objects made of polymeric compositions, to fracturing, shattering, and splintering during application of stress forces during cutting, shearing or grinding, thereby permitting the formation of shorter finished objects with appropriately and smoothly contured ends from a long stock object. Differently stated, the present invention relates to a method of preparing an elongated, rod-like object composed of several plastic, polymeric compositions, having channels formed therein and extending longitudinally thereof, for subsequent cutting of such long object into short lengths with desirably shaped end surfaces.