I'm of a different opinion, having shot a couple Ruger Old Army's with brass frames. I load mine hot, routinely stuffing 45 grs. of triple 7 over a round ball, or 40 grains over a Kaido 220 gr pure lead bullet. I also have two Classic Ballistix cylinders that will hold more powder than that. There is no difference between the brass and steel frames that I own. The truth is none of us is likely to shoot one gun enough to wear out a component as robust as the grip frame. Not saying it's impossible, just highly unlikely. I always admired the ROA with the brass frame, and the factory didn't make that many of them. If your friend likes the way they look I would say go for it.