Dave,
Have you considered, now that the body shape is set and hinges are your only variable, making the swimbaits out of urathane, using silicone molds? You can make up body sections in about 10 minutes and you can drill, sand, cut, etc., just like wood. Using microballons or metal powder as an addative, you can adjust your specific gravity to match any wood, and be more consistent.
Just an idea, I'm too lazy to use wood anymore. LOL