[lineslinger]

The band saw or what I think is actually called a "cutoff" saw would leave you with the least amount of burring, give you a "cold" cut, thus not compromising the temper of the steel and leave you with a level and even result.
You can follow up with a dremel metal grinding disc or a fine metal file to clean up the cut and smooth it to your satisfaction. As for the taper the grinder should be fine as long as you don't get too aggresive with it and keep the heat build up under control.
Another option would be to have a machine shop mill it down or even have it shortened and tapered with a CNC process although that process starts to get expensive and may not be necessary for your needs