I have 2 choices of material-7075 aluminum or 316 SS-(please let me know if you think there is something better). I was wanting it to be 16 long x 3 inch dia with a .685 wall for the AL and maybe .250 for the SS.
Well, guessing at the wall thicknesses is not an optimal approach. You really need an analysis and a functional proof-load test following construction if you're going to use this.
FYI, I would use SS, 304 or better in my design with material trace-ability.