Hi Veiled,
I hope the weather has calmed down out there. I wish my wife enjoyed some of the same things I do- especially now that I am feeling better and have regained interest in doing things... I plan on going to an outdoor shooting range this weekend and put some rounds through my AK. BTW, another great 'economical' classical arm to consider later on would be a Russian or Chinese "SKS". The ammo for them can be found easily and typically costs about $4 for a box of 20 bullets. I have one with a scope and it shoots great... more than enough accuracy and power to take a deer. Plus there are many economical upgrades that can be made over time if you so choose.
Back onto subject of reply- I read Madjon's reply and he summed it up quite well... beech for practicality, and walnut for (potential) beautiful finish. IMO, If you can get walnut, then get that... it adds more value to the gun and does look nicer- a better long term investment. Before taking it out into a hunting environment, wipe it down with some 'Birchwood-Casey' gun stock wax. Hope this helps.