I am in the process of dressing up my 1895gs. The original stock doesn't fit the receiver real well, being a little undersized. I'm thinking about either having a new stock made, or maybe inlaying some other wood on the sides that would run clear up and replace the sections that mate to the receiver. I'm in the wood business so i have access to about a hundred different species, and I'm just curious why gun makers use mahogony and woods like it in the first place.
What wood characteristics should I look for or stay away from? I'm wondering if I used a heavier wood if it would help with the recoil. Any thought?