25% Edge 540 vs 9-1/2 pounds??? What kit??? What engine???

How? I know if you go with the minimal 2-stroke engine and minimize your servo count (one servo for elevator) in a Hanger 9 25% Cap 232 you might get under 12lbs and that is only true if you install the servos in the conventional manner. If you install them in the tail you will need a heavy engine to offset the CG -- not in the plans if your looking for 9-1/2 pound 1/4-scale.

In any case, if you can afford placing the servos in the tail you'll have a much more positive responsive bird. If however, you don't have the expertise to take advantage of the enhanced responsive elevator using a single 1/4-scale servo installed in the conventional manner would be much cheaper.