How old is this Hoppe's 9???

[The_Next_Generation]

Hey guys, I was wondering how old this stuff is. Someone on here can probably tell me, so here are a few pics.

One is a large 32 oz. bottle, the other is a much smaller "pocket sized" bottle.






And the big guy:

 

[JohnBT]

The one with "Philadelphia 33 Pa" on it is pre-1963 when zip codes were introduced. That's as far as I've gotten and I have a meeting to sit through now.

John

 

[MYREDTAIL]

I have the same bottle & box that belonged to my Dad that he bought sometime in the 50's or 60's.?

 

[tightgroup tiger]

Me too. I have a box of Hoppes cleaning patches that are dated to 1946 on the box itself. It has the same style logos.

 

[Tpr0811]

Looks like 50's and 60's to me too.

 

[Mal H]

Agree, most likely it's from the 50's. If I recall correctly, the label was a little less "modern" looking in the 40's and early 50's.

Be aware that the composition of Hoppe's #9 changed a little while after that bottled was made. I believe the formula originally contained benzene which is slightly carcinogenic. The benzene was removed when that fact was discovered. It's not so hazardous that you need to wear a gas mask, but just be cautious with it, Wearing neoprene gloves when using it would be wise.

 

[The_Next_Generation]

Wow, thanks Mal!

This was all I received (in terms of cleaning fluid) from my grandmother when she gave me my grandfathers old Remmy 740 (my first gun as well). I've used this stuff since July without gloves about once every two weeks to clean the rifle, my .22, and recently my new-to-me H&R 12ga. And I haven't been the best about using it in a "well ventilated area" either..should I be worried?

I will for sure go out and buy some new No 9, as well as clean my guns in someplace other than my room.

Thanks,

- TNG

 

[tightgroup tiger]

most likely it's from the 50's. If I recall correctly, the label was a little less "modern" looking in the 40's and early 50's.

Yes, I looked at my old Hoppes stuff my father left me. This is a box from 1940 and it has two rifles under the insignia.

Your bottle must be from later. It does look simular and this box is for cleaning patches, not solvent, but your #9 bore cleaner is definently early.

 

[Mal H]

... should I be worried?

Not really, just use it a little more cautiously from now on. Or, better yet, save it as an antique only and use only some newer cleaning solutions.