i'm building a Proctor Nieuport 11 and mounting a Laser 80 to it. this will have to be done by recessing the engine back about an 1 1/2 from the main firewall. not a problem, but that distance pluse the thickness of a 1/4" ply at the back end of this leaves no room to use a conventional mount, so hardwood beams will be the best way to go.
question is, maple or birch......?
my LHS (Hobbytown toy store) does not carry any hardwoods.
i do have a maple chopping block that i've collected through remodeling jobs and don't have any problem cutting into it.
if you have any other suggestions, please speak.

thx
-mike