If Scandium frames are stronger than aluminum frames, why do they have steel blast shields in the top strap ?

If Scandium frames are stronger than aluminum frames, why do they have steel blast shields in the top strap ?

It's probably is to protect against flame cutting... while Scandium may have superior tensile strength so it can handle higher energy levels than aluminum, it could still be vulnerable to the high temperatures associated with the hot ignition gas.

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Conrad
SWCA #1830 SWHF #222

Not to be overly simplistic, but I would assume so. Because there aren't any aluminum 44 magnums like there are scandium frame 44 mags. 329 PD and 329 NG.

Heck I'm not sure there are any aluminum .357 magnums, except for some experimental ones. But obviously there are scandium 357s.

Having said that scandium does have some problems with tourqing pressure, hence some cracked frames right out of the factory.

See 329-1 performance center gun discussion in 3rd edtion of s&w reference book.

Dave

Aluminum is the primary metal used in the frame on Airweight and AirLite revolvers. What S&W calls a “Scandium” gun is actually an aluminum alloy frame with traces of elemental scandium in the mix. Adding it increases the strength of the alloy, but it’s still aluminum alloy. The cylinders on these guns are often made from titanium because of its strength and light weight. Flame cutting is the reason for the stainless shield and even steel frame guns are subject to it.

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"I also cook."

Remember, there is a difference between strength and hardness.

F/S is correct.
The answer is what Chad wrote. Calling it "Scandium" is a much more effective marketing angle than having to use a paragraph single spaced in order to explain it?

IIRC, scandium alloy is only 1% scandium.

Right, and last I heard, scandium was $12,000 a pound!!!!