Texchappy
Ok, so I've decided to make a mallet:

I have a plan: http://www.craftsmanspace.com/Free%20projects/Wooden%20Mallet.pdf

I have a local hardwoods yard that has the basics (cherry, walnut, pecan, oak, etc) and an hour away there is one that seems pretty well stocked. I'm thinking walnut for the head and oak for the handle - are there better choices?

Also, I'm guessing I just chisel out the sloped hole for the handle?