STI 2011 Style Frame made from Fortal?

[Mud]

Just wondering, didn't get any help over at Homegunsmith.com. Will STI 2011 style Frame hold up if it is made from Fortal Aluminum? My CNC is down and out right now, but I received a piece of Fortal that fits the dimensions of a 2011 frame. The strength looks good on paper, but could it hold up? I was using 304ss for the last project, but messed it up on the last run (my CNC is great for Aluminum, yet slow with Steel). Thanks in advance.

[Josh]

AFAIK, Fortal is just a trade name for a 7000 series aluminum alloy.

Most 1911 frames made from aluminum are of the 6000 series.

The only thing i would worry about is how the frame attaches to the grip. But it should be ok from what i can see in pictures. The screws look big enough to spread the force out and not over stress the aluminum around them.

[38super]

6000 if machined, otherwise investment cast with 356Al or similar. 7000 should work, and I like the way it machines.