I have an old Smith&Wesson .32 that was my Grand fathers and as far as I know Hopps#9 is all its ever been cleaned with. The finish is around 80% I would have to say.
Call Hoppe's. They will know for sure.Any issues with using Hoppes #9 on the brushed nickel finish?
I've been using that lately. It works great and my safe smells minty fresh.Try Frog Lube. The best for all firearms.
I recall watching an episode of Real Guys Reviews on Youtube, and he did a segment on Frog Lube. Basically, he found the same thing IIRC - more lube tended to gum up moving parts. A thinner coat tended to be better.If you go with the Frog lube you wont be disappointed however; one thing he noted in ALL cases. The thinner the final lube surface (wipe it clean) the least drag. Having too much lube actually causes more drag.
Hope this helps.