Have you every had an axle break or bend on a freewheel bike you've owned?
It does happen more to a freewheel bike, but I had plenty that it was no issue on. One being a bike that I owned and rode for over 35 years.
And don't take that as a suggestion that you should go back to a freewheel. It's just that your statement seems to indicate you have concerns that keep you from riding because of simply worrying about what ifs.
As for the metal, I don't know. I've never taken apart a freehub. Nor have I ever taken apart a freewheel. I just lube the axle bearings if they aren't sealed cartridge bearings.
Last edited by Iride01; 09-26-21 at 12:01 PM.