Several of your BEM dowels look absolutely stunning and as good as it gets. They will make cues with the "wow" factor. I am assuming, of course, that they are figured on both side of the piece. I don't think many end users appreciate just how difficult it is to acquire top-grade super-figured birdseye maple and hard curly. 4A or better bird or hard curl is very rare. I love the variation within birdseye from small to large eye. Today I am making my way back downstate in Michigan. This state is incredibly scenic. I've looked at lots of maple on this trip and picked up some prized pieces too. In an hour or so, I'm making a stop at Barn Door Lumber outside of Saginaw to see if they have anything worthhile.
Martin
Martin