The idea of map needing to be researched is kind of backwards in my opinion and here I will explain as quickly as possible:
Research table is basically 2k metal, and 1.1k wood. Skipping the part where I math out how much that really is when you consider the need for a furnace and the time it takes, lets just say that the RT is a later game item.
Most people will be roaming, exploring, and harvesting the map* more* early on because they are trying to build up their supplies so it’s actually worth having a base and going for these things. This early stage is the perfect time for the player to have a map that they can draw on as they explore, causing this map to grow in value the longer it has been in play, thus making your life more valuable the longer you’ve had it.
By the time the player will have farmed up enough to make a RT and a safe home to store it in, they will have basically memorized all the nearby surroundings and the benefit and point of making a map have diminished.
I propose simply making the map default, and possibly reducing the cost. I don’t think 1000 wood is TOO unreasonable, but considering that’s a good chunk of the starting rocks durability, I think it’s reasonable to assume we’d get a stone hatchet, spear and a few barrels before getting started on a map; so I have no opinion on cost.