Hoppe’s 9 Plus Black Powder Solvent & Patch Lubricant Bottle Review

Was the Hoppe’s 9 Plus Black Powder Solvent & Patch Lubricant Bottle the Right Choice?

Black powder shooting, with its rich history and unique challenges, demands specialized care for firearms. The Hoppe’s 9 Plus Black Powder Solvent & Patch Lubricant Bottle, manufactured by Hoppe’s 9, promised to be a one-stop solution for cleaning fouling and protecting against rust. This review will delve into whether it lived up to that promise, based on my extensive experience with black powder firearms and cleaning solvents.

What led me to this product was a persistent problem: the tenacious fouling left behind by black powder. Regular solvents often required excessive scrubbing, and I needed a product specifically formulated to break down black powder residue quickly and efficiently. The lure of a solvent that also lubricates patches was an appealing bonus, potentially streamlining my cleaning process and improving accuracy.

Upon receiving the Hoppe’s 9 Plus Black Powder Solvent & Patch Lubricant Bottle, I immediately noted its familiar, straightforward design. The plastic bottle, while functional, didn’t scream “premium,” but the Hoppe’s 9 name instilled a sense of confidence. The weight felt substantial, suggesting a concentrated formula, and the scent, a milder version of classic Hoppe’s 9, was far less pungent than some dedicated black powder solvents I’d used.

I compared it to two other products I frequently use: Ballistol and a homemade solution of water and Murphy’s Oil Soap. Ballistol is a versatile cleaner and lubricant but sometimes struggles with heavy black powder fouling. The homemade solution is effective but lacks rust protection. I chose the Hoppe’s 9 Plus Black Powder Solvent & Patch Lubricant Bottle hoping for a combination of cleaning power and long-term protection.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The familiar Hoppe’s 9 scent and the promise of a two-in-one solution gave me hope, but black powder fouling can be notoriously stubborn. I was eager to put it to the test on my trusty .50 caliber Hawken rifle.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hoppe’s 9 Plus Black Powder Solvent & Patch Lubricant Bottle to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Hoppe’s 9 Plus Black Powder Solvent & Patch Lubricant Bottle immediately after a range session with my .50 caliber Hawken rifle. The conditions were dry, with a slight breeze, typical for a late summer afternoon. I followed the instructions, swabbing the bore with a patch soaked in the solvent.

The solvent dissolved the fouling noticeably faster than my usual cleaner. It required fewer passes with the cleaning rod to remove the bulk of the residue, saving considerable time and effort. I also experimented with using the solvent to pre-lube patches for loading, and it seemed to improve the ease with which the ball seated in the barrel.

There were no immediate issues, but I did notice that the solvent left a slightly oily residue. This wasn’t necessarily a problem, given its lubricating properties, but it required a final dry patch to avoid any potential impact on accuracy. This was a surprise, as many solvents evaporate cleanly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Hoppe’s 9 Plus Black Powder Solvent & Patch Lubricant Bottle has proven to be a reliable performer. It consistently removes black powder fouling with minimal effort, and I’ve noticed a significant reduction in the amount of rust forming in the bore of my rifles between cleanings. The improved rust protection is a major advantage in humid conditions.

Durability hasn’t been an issue, as the solvent itself doesn’t degrade or expire quickly. The plastic bottle is holding up well, showing no signs of leaks or cracks, even after being jostled around in my range bag. Regular use has not revealed any unexpected issues or concerns.

Maintenance is incredibly simple: just apply the solvent to a patch and swab the bore. Cleaning the firearm is now more efficient. Compared to my previous cleaning regimen, which involved multiple solvents and oils, the Hoppe’s 9 Plus Black Powder Solvent & Patch Lubricant Bottle streamlines the process and provides superior rust protection.

Breaking Down the Features of Hoppe’s 9 Plus Black Powder Solvent & Patch Lubricant Bottle

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Hoppe’s 9 is a well-known and respected name in firearm maintenance. Their long history and reputation for quality give confidence in their products.
• Quantity: The bottle contains one pint (8 oz) of solvent and patch lubricant. This quantity provides a decent supply for multiple cleaning sessions.
• Volume: The 8 oz volume is a manageable size for storage and transport. It’s enough product to last a while without being overly bulky.
• Specifically designed for black powder firearms, this solvent effectively tackles the unique fouling produced by black powder propellants. This targeted formula is a key advantage over general-purpose cleaners.
• The two-in-one formulation cleans fouling and lubricates the bore. This saves time and effort by combining two essential steps into one.
• Provides rust and corrosion protection, safeguarding the firearm’s bore during storage. This is critical for preserving the life and accuracy of black powder firearms, which are particularly susceptible to rust.
• Equally effective for deep or shallow grooved barrels, making it versatile for different types of black powder firearms. This broad compatibility ensures it can be used with a wide range of rifles and pistols.
• Can be used to lubricate patches for easier loading and improved accuracy. This dual use further enhances its value and convenience.

Performance & Functionality

The Hoppe’s 9 Plus Black Powder Solvent & Patch Lubricant Bottle excels at its primary job: cleaning black powder fouling. It effectively dissolves residue, reducing the need for aggressive scrubbing. Its lubricating properties also reduce friction when seating projectiles.

The product’s strength lies in its ability to combine cleaning and protection, but it could benefit from a slightly less oily formula. It meets expectations, providing a noticeable improvement over general-purpose cleaners.

Design & Ergonomics

The solvent is easy to apply and use, with no special tools or techniques required. The plastic bottle is functional but not particularly ergonomic.

There is no significant learning curve. Anyone familiar with firearm cleaning will find it easy to use.

Durability & Maintenance

The solvent itself has a long shelf life when stored properly. Minimal maintenance is required beyond regular cleaning of the firearm.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hoppe’s 9 Plus Black Powder Solvent & Patch Lubricant Bottle doesn’t come with any specific accessories, but its effectiveness can be enhanced by using high-quality cleaning rods and patches. It is compatible with virtually any standard cleaning accessories designed for firearms. The Hoppe’s 9 company has a wide range of options.

Pros and Cons of Hoppe’s 9 Plus Black Powder Solvent & Patch Lubricant Bottle

Who Should Buy Hoppe’s 9 Plus Black Powder Solvent & Patch Lubricant Bottle?

This product is perfect for black powder enthusiasts, hunters, and competitive muzzleloader shooters. Anyone who regularly uses black powder firearms will benefit from its cleaning power and rust protection.

Those who prefer completely dry bores or who are extremely sensitive to oily residues might want to skip this product. Also, it may not be the best choice for those looking for an all-in-one solution that includes bore brushes or other cleaning accessories.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality cleaning rod with appropriate jags and patches. Consider investing in a bore light to thoroughly inspect the bore after cleaning.

Conclusion on Hoppe’s 9 Plus Black Powder Solvent & Patch Lubricant Bottle

The Hoppe’s 9 Plus Black Powder Solvent & Patch Lubricant Bottle is a solid choice for black powder shooters seeking an effective and convenient cleaning solution. Its ability to dissolve fouling quickly and provide excellent rust protection makes it a valuable addition to any black powder cleaning kit.

At $7.19, the price is justified by the product’s performance and dual-purpose functionality. The superior cleaning and rust protection it offers makes it a worthwhile investment.

I would definitely recommend the Hoppe’s 9 Plus Black Powder Solvent & Patch Lubricant Bottle to fellow black powder enthusiasts. It’s a reliable and effective solution that simplifies the cleaning process and helps preserve the life of your valuable firearms. Give it a try and experience the difference it can make in your black powder maintenance routine.