[gtmtnbiker98]

Okay, didn't know this, but I recently learned that one shouldn't clean a S&W Airweight with anything that containa ammonia. Well, as I just recently found out, Hoppe's 9 Powder Solvent contains ammonia and I've cleaned my new pistol twice with it. How can one tell if I've damaged the protective finish?

Feeling a little upset right now; however, I guess you live and learn. TIA

[JoeHatley]

Your barrel and cylinder are stainless, so Hoppe's #9 won't hurt them. The alloy frame does have a coating on it, and I would use the Hoppe's sparingly there. Just make sure you wipe the frame clean and dry, when done.

I've used nothing but Hoppe's #9 to clean my 642 for almost 4 years, and it still looks like new.

If you are concerned, just switch to some other cleaner, like BreakFree CLP.

Good Luck...

Joe

[dispatch]

Hoppe's #9- it's the standard. Dry patch and light oil afterwards- no problems with any blue, nickle, or stainless in my experience.

[Walkalong]

I have switched to MPro7 (http://www.ccwsupply.biz/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=C&Product_Code=MP7GC&Category_Code=CKARB) gun cleaner. It is a high tech soap basically, but works very well. It takes a bit to get used to. Spray parts down, let it soak, scrub with a toothbrush, rinse with water or brake cleaner, reoil parts. I also like their oil, along with a couple of others I have had good success with.

The Slip2000 (http://www.slip2000.com/products.html) products are also very good and a bit cheaper.

[The Lone Haranguer]

It will be fine. It's not like you're going to leave the gun soaking in it. ;)