IMHO maple is the wood of choice here, although a segmented blank might
hold up better than a solid one if you have the time and inclination
(i.e. the grain would be running *along* the ribs instead of *across*
them). Poplar is another choice, easier to turn but not as strong.

Ebony would work if you have a sharp scraper; it turns like plastic,
but is obviously not cheap ;-)

Or... plastic? Turn a rough cast and make an epoxy or melted plastic
blank.