Who uses 3 in 1 oil these days?

Cliff · Post by **Cliff** » Sat Mar 10, 2012 4:32 pm

Just curious. I have always been around 3 in 1 oil as long as I can remember. My father had it on hand in his shop and we used for gun oil and tool oil and so on. I did a search on the "net" and found the 3 and 1 stood for it's uses. Metal, Wood and Leather. Didn't know that after 65 plus years. Always like the smell of the stuff and neve had any problems using it. Just wondering. Have a good weekend. ATB

JerryB · Post by **JerryB** » Sat Mar 10, 2012 5:19 pm

I'm 74 years old, when my dad said it was time to clean the guns after a hunt out came the 3 in one oil. I used it for years, didn't know it is still for sale.

Old Ranger · Post by **Old Ranger** » Sat Mar 10, 2012 5:40 pm

As a child I remember my mother using it on her tredel (did I spell that right?) Singer sewing machine. My dad would come in and have to hunt for that oil when he was in need of it. It has been around for as long as I can remember and that is some time now

I don't recal my dad ever using it on weapons, but it was in his shop always, unless mom had it. Flash forward to this century, and there's a can of that same oil in my shop too! That oil has been a staple for many I suppose...me included. And yes, it is still made here in the U.S.

Wade

Shasta · Post by **Shasta** » Sat Mar 10, 2012 5:54 pm

3 in 1 oil has been a staple in our family ever since I can remember. I don't use it for guns, but it has many household uses where a light oil is needed, especially for the wife's sewing machine.

SHASTA

willygene · Post by **willygene** » Sat Mar 10, 2012 6:11 pm

love 3 in 1 oil use it on my sewing machines in my saddle shop but don't use it on leather it will rot it. on leather use 100% neet's foot oil or virgin olive oil. i also use a lot of lilly stiching oil with my sewing machines to lube the thread. i also use 3 in 1 on my oil stones for sharpening my knives.

Mike D. · Post by **Mike D.** » Sat Mar 10, 2012 6:14 pm

Three in one was invented by G W Cole in 1894. It came in bottles with his name embosssed on them until it became the "Three In One Oil Co" around 1905. There were at least two sizes, but the originals by Cole came in the size shown. It was very popular, if the large number we dig is an indicator. I don't bother washing them, just sell 'em as-is for a couple bucks.

jeepnik · Post by **jeepnik** » Sat Mar 10, 2012 6:23 pm

Interestingly, I just oiled up my Hi LIft jack. I use only 3 in 1 on it. Have since I bought it in '83. There are all sorts of "modern" lubricants, but good ole 3 in 1 still works just dandy.

Post by **Old Savage** » Sat Mar 10, 2012 6:26 pm

Always have used it on pocket knives and oil stones.

Ray Newman · Post by **Ray Newman** » Sat Mar 10, 2012 6:38 pm

Don’t think it is advisable to use 3-in-1 on wood or leather.

From the 3 in 1 oil FAQ home page:

“What is 3-IN-ONE® Oil?
3-IN-ONE is a specially formulated lubricating, penetrating, and cleaning oil. 3-IN-ONE's unique set of ingredients enable it to lubricate as well as protect metal surfaces. 3-IN-ONE Oil's easy-to-use drip spout allows you to apply the product right where it's needed most
***
“What does the name stand for?
3-IN-ONE was developed in 1894 for use on bicycles. The inventor, George Cole, was hoping to create a product that would lubricate, clean and prevent rust. Those three functions in one product led to the name.
(Italics added: rcN)

Read call ‘bout it:
http://www.3inone.com/faqs/#a48

And from Wikipedia:

“3-in-One Oil is a general-purpose lubricating oil sold in small cans and squeezable containers for household and do-it-yourself use. It was originally formulated in 1894. Its name, given by the inventor George W. Cole of New Jersey, derives from the product's triple ability to "clean, lubricate and protect," originally for use on bicycles. The formula consists of pale spindle oil with a small amount of corrosion inhibitor and citronella oil (which gives the product its distinctive sharp odor). It remains a popular lubricant for bicycle chains”

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/3-In-One_Oil

getitdone1 · Post by **getitdone1** » Sat Mar 10, 2012 6:52 pm

Seems to me I've read not to use 3 in 1 oil on guns. Believe they said it would get either 'gummy' or 'cake-up' over time thereby increasing the effort needed to work gun's action.

Someone here will come along with a more accurate version of what I'm trying to convey.

Don

Ray Newman · Post by **Ray Newman** » Sat Mar 10, 2012 6:56 pm

If using oil as apreservative on firearms, it is best to apply a very light film. Too heavy a coat of oil and it will drip/soak into the wood. Oil causes wood to become soft and loose it strength as well as darken it. Same thing from what I have seen on leather.

gamekeeper · Post by **gamekeeper** » Sat Mar 10, 2012 7:08 pm

I bought a new can only the other day.
When I worked for Westley Richards I had an old pellet tin full of 3 in 1 oil on my bench, the level kept going down overnight and then I found out that Mice were drinking it!

Hagler · Post by **Hagler** » Sat Mar 10, 2012 7:17 pm

Gents,

I have not used it in ages. Iver Johnson used to recommend it for their guns, and it appears that 3 in One did, too:

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewIt ... =276133179

Though tattered,it comes with the original box( bottom portion of box is in a couple pieces) and papers which includes an ad and cleaning instructions from the Original 3-in-1 Oil Company.

They used to advertise that it is good for wood, too:

1916 Vintage Advertising Illustration 1910s 3 In 1 Oil resized.jpg

Shawn

iceman · Post by **iceman** » Sat Mar 10, 2012 7:54 pm

I always have some of it in the house somewhere. I have found it very good for removing surface rust on firearms. Works good for general cleaning of the outside of guns. I don't use it much for lubing because I find it dries and leaves a residue with time.

Post by **Hobie** » Sat Mar 10, 2012 8:21 pm

Let me throw my hand up. Mostly I use it on my hot water heater pump...

J Miller · Post by **J Miller** » Sat Mar 10, 2012 9:28 pm

Old Ranger wrote:As a child I remember my mother using it on her tredel (did I spell that right?) Singer sewing machine. My dad would come in and have to hunt for that oil when he was in need of it. It has been around for as long as I can remember and that is some time now
I don't recal my dad ever using it on weapons, but it was in his shop always, unless mom had it. Flash forward to this century, and there's a can of that same oil in my shop too! That oil has been a staple for many I suppose...me included. And yes, it is still made here in the U.S.

Wade

Wade,
That's "treadle" as in Singer treadle sewing machine. Zoom zoom.

Mike D. wrote:Three in one was invented by G W Cole in 1894. It came in bottles with his name embosssed on them until it became the "Three In One Oil Co" around 1905. There were at least two sizes, but the originals by Cole came in the size shown. It was very popular, if the large number we dig is an indicator. I don't bother washing them, just sell 'em as-is for a couple bucks.

Mike,
Next time you find a pair like that give me a holler. I'd like to have a set for my collection of things.

......................................................

Mom used to have 3-IN-1 oil around all the time. I've rarely used it since I have so much other oils to use.

For guns I use mostly Marvel oil or Industrial PCL.

For sewing machines I use sewing machine oil.

For other things I use what's handy.

Joe

1894c · Post by **1894c** » Sat Mar 10, 2012 9:32 pm

they still make that oil...totally forgot about it... :)

Tycer · Post by **Tycer** » Sat Mar 10, 2012 9:34 pm

I've used it on bikes and electric motors only. Dad told me not to use it on guns as it would gum up.

KCSO · Post by **KCSO** » Sat Mar 10, 2012 10:19 pm

I quit using 3 in 1 after I tested it and found out how poor a gun oil it really is. CLP is my choice nbow as a rust preventitive and general gun oil. That said in the old days we used a lot of it and Grandma used it on the treadle sewing machine also. I still have a can of it in the old machine.

dennie · Post by **dennie** » Sat Mar 10, 2012 11:29 pm

I remember gramps always having 3-in-1 oil around. Also always had Cloverine Salve, Carter's Little Liver Pills, Smith Brother's Cough Drops, and hoarhound (sp?) candy.
Yep, I'm an old feller.
dennie

KirkD · Post by **KirkD** » Sat Mar 10, 2012 11:43 pm

I use it once I've cleaned a bore to swab a very fine layer of 3-in-1 inside the bore. I use Conservator's Wax on the externals.

Mac in Mo · Post by **Mac in Mo** » Sun Mar 11, 2012 3:47 am

I am another who uses it mostly for my pocket knives.

Kevin

Mutt · Post by **Mutt** » Sun Mar 11, 2012 5:09 am

I still do for a lot of items ...............Mutt

rossim92 · Post by **rossim92** » Sun Mar 11, 2012 8:14 am

when I worked at another printing company, I used 3in1 oil on the acme stitching heads on a mccain stitcher. I used the 20 weight. After dissambly and cleaning of heads, used this oil sparingly upon assembly, and daily oiling. Worked great and the pullup applicator was perfect size. Head worked great till the buildup of metal"dust" from the stitching wire forced me to do another clean and rebuild. The new bottles are made of plastic and has a cap that you pull on and off. Hate that, like the old style metal cans version.

Washita · Post by **Washita** » Sun Mar 11, 2012 10:08 am

game keeper wrote:I bought a new can only the other day.
When I worked for Westley Richards I had an old pellet tin full of 3 in 1 oil on my bench, the level kept going down overnight and then I found out that Mice were drinking it!

Do you suppose it improved their "regularity?"

madman4570 · Post by **madman4570** » Sun Mar 11, 2012 11:11 am

I use 0-20W Amsoil (since the red/white 3 in 1 is 10W) but not on my guns.

Found that 1 qt used in my 2 good ole brass spout pump cans last about 3-5 years for lubing stuff in general.
Dont have to be Amsoil (just like that brand)

For the guns----myself ? ----I have found what works best for me is Rem Oil on inside stuff/guts,and wiped down Lemon Pledge for outside stuff.(does the wood at same time)

Plus the guns smell nice.(my hunting gun during deer or whatever season use the unscented Pledge wiped extra good.)

That stuff is amazing (bought an extra 28" modified 12ga vent rib barrel once for my Ithaca 37's)had some surface rusting and the barrel inside was not looking too great(got to realize couldn,t resist it was like $10 or $15)and I like a challenge.

Took a can of Lemon Pledge and totally foamed up the entire barrel in/out and then wrapped it up in plastic wrap.
Let it set on top of a cabinet in my workshop for 3 months,unwrapped it wiped it down and that thing looked like new.
Thought if it will do that-----------------then????????/

gamekeeper · Post by **gamekeeper** » Sun Mar 11, 2012 11:29 am

Washita wrote:
game keeper wrote:I bought a new can only the other day.
When I worked for Westley Richards I had an old pellet tin full of 3 in 1 oil on my bench, the level kept going down overnight and then I found out that Mice were drinking it!
Do you suppose it improved their "regularity?"

Don't know about that but It stopped them squeaking.

olyinaz · Post by **olyinaz** » Sun Mar 11, 2012 11:45 am

Stopped using it and WD40 years ago. Modern synthetic based oils like CLP or Mobile 1 do everything 3 in 1 and WD40 did but better in my view.

I'm sure it works, but there are alternatives that are better today. S'all I'm sayin'. If you love the stuff enjoy it!

Oly

2571 · Post by **2571** » Sun Mar 11, 2012 12:06 pm

Ther's been a can of that stuff in my mother-in-law's pantry for 40 years. Probalby the same can, too. lol

Borregos · Post by **Borregos** » Sun Mar 11, 2012 12:58 pm

game keeper wrote:
Washita wrote:
game keeper wrote:I bought a new can only the other day.
When I worked for Westley Richards I had an old pellet tin full of 3 in 1 oil on my bench, the level kept going down overnight and then I found out that Mice were drinking it!
Do you suppose it improved their "regularity?"
Don't know about that but It stopped them squeaking.

Griff · Post by **Griff** » Sun Mar 11, 2012 1:07 pm

dennie wrote:I remember gramps always having 3-in-1 oil around. Also always had Cloverine Salve, Carter's Little Liver Pills, Smith Brother's Cough Drops, and hoarhound (sp?) candy.
Yep, I'm an old feller.
dennie

I still have 3-in-1 oil in the shop and the wife's sewing area, can remember it weren't all that long ago that Carter's Liver Pills, Smith Brother's Cough Drops and Cod Liver Oil were the basis of gettin' rid of whatever ailed ya! But I prefer Corn Husker's lotion! And I ain't that old... yet!

Although I tend to use more WD40 than 3-in-1 nowadays.

rimrock · Post by **rimrock** » Sun Mar 11, 2012 1:26 pm

I use 3-n-1 and Ed's Red on my guns, and 10w30 on my reloading dies. I also use 3-n-1 as a solvent for alox.

rimrock

jeepnik · Post by **jeepnik** » Mon Mar 12, 2012 10:46 am

Griff wrote:
dennie wrote:I remember gramps always having 3-in-1 oil around. Also always had Cloverine Salve, Carter's Little Liver Pills, Smith Brother's Cough Drops, and hoarhound (sp?) candy.
Yep, I'm an old feller.
dennie
I still have 3-in-1 oil in the shop and the wife's sewing area, can remember it weren't all that long ago that Carter's Liver Pills, Smith Brother's Cough Drops and Cod Liver Oil were the basis of gettin' rid of whatever ailed ya! But I prefer Corn Husker's lotion! And I ain't that old... yet!

Although I tend to use more WD40 than 3-in-1 nowadays.

I saw an ad not that long ago for Smith Brother's. Maybe someone has bought the name.

1894c · Post by **1894c** » Mon Mar 12, 2012 5:54 pm

game keeper wrote:
Washita wrote:
game keeper wrote:I bought a new can only the other day.
When I worked for Westley Richards I had an old pellet tin full of 3 in 1 oil on my bench, the level kept going down overnight and then I found out that Mice were drinking it! :shock:
Do you suppose it improved their "regularity?" :roll:
Don't know about that but It stopped them squeaking.

wow...that's bad... :)

Nath · Post by **Nath** » Tue Mar 13, 2012 3:36 pm

Borregos wrote:
game keeper wrote:
Washita wrote:
game keeper wrote:I bought a new can only the other day.
When I worked for Westley Richards I had an old pellet tin full of 3 in 1 oil on my bench, the level kept going down overnight and then I found out that Mice were drinking it!
Do you suppose it improved their "regularity?"
Don't know about that but It stopped them squeaking.

As it happens I used some last night on an air gun!

Nath.

Bullard4075 · Post by **Bullard4075** » Tue Mar 13, 2012 9:14 pm

I always have a can on the bench. The smell of it (and Hoppe's #9) brings back fond memories.
.
.
.
.
.
Not that I just smell it.
I use it too.
Honest.
Really I mean it.

Rube Burrows · Post by **Rube Burrows** » Wed Mar 14, 2012 9:54 am

I have always been around it also and still have several cans around that are tin......and one that is plastic.

Blaine · Post by **Blaine** » Wed Mar 14, 2012 10:01 am

My Grandpa used it. When his Browning .22 Auto finally made it's way to me, after several years of non-use, the oil had turned to a white, hard gunk. So, like WD, it's a good idea to wipe off after putting it on. (WD40 and 3-1 are the same company now)

El Chivo · Post by **El Chivo** » Thu Mar 15, 2012 4:28 am

I use a generous amount on my hair clipper blades before giving myself a free haircut. No gumming up.

I used to use it for sharpening the knives, with an oilstone. Now I use saliva, a little more readily available, and doesn't clog the pores of the stone.

For bike chains I have switched to whatever brand leaves a dry lubricant behind like graphite or teflon.

For guns I use Prolix (which also leaves a lubricant behind).

For things that squeak around the house I use Hoppe's because I have it around. It's a little thicker than 3 in 1 so I like it better.

I use 3 in 1 at work to oil my lensometer which has some heavy gears. I bet it would be better to switch to Hoppe's for that as well.

I don't see evidence of 3 in one gumming up, when I go inside my lensometer, it's just a little thin for heavy parts. Probably a little thin for guns too.

Egg spurts have said not to use too light an oil on bicycles, because it stops lubricating and then just attracts dirt. The stuff I use evaporates and leaves dry lubricant behind.

AkRay · Post by **AkRay** » Thu Mar 15, 2012 7:06 pm

El Chivo, I've also heard bike guys recommend against using 3 in 1 oil, mostly because it attracts dirt. If it were the only thing available, I'd use it on my guns. I had a blue revolver that I left in the tent while I hiked for miles over the tundra. I neglected to bring a good belt holster with me, and I was carrying a load anyway so I left it behind. When I got back, it had a brown sheen all over it from the dew that had condensed on it since the tent door and flap were wide open. I didn't have any kind of oil or lube along, so when we got back to the truck I pulled the dipstick and scavenged a little 10W-30 oil to wipe the gun down. I don't even remember if we had any extra quarts of oil along on that trip.

DougB · Post by **DougB** » Sat Mar 17, 2012 8:04 am

I have a can of 3 and 1 both on my shop workbench as well as my reloading bench. A drop behind each ear works almost as good as Hoppe's #9 when I run out!

Old Time Hunter · Post by **Old Time Hunter** » Sat Mar 17, 2012 8:42 am

Use it all the time on the worm drive gear for my garage door opener, does not coagulate at -10'F.

Dingelfutz · Post by **Dingelfutz** » Fri Mar 23, 2012 10:01 am

My grandparents, too! My "Gram" used 3-in-One a lot, including in her old Singer "treddle" machine and also when SHE cleaned the farm scattergun. (Quite the lady, that one!) Yep! I'm old, too!