I note that Brownell's always advertized their Force 44 lead free soft solder (primarily tin) as being safe in a hot blue tank. having used force 44 solder & also having done hot bluong in the past I found this to be true.
I was always of the opinion the alkaline componenet (LYE) of the hot blues attacked the lead component of ordinary soft solders. Lead is Acid resistant, but apparently not Alkaline resistant.
If anyone cares to experiment on this simply "Very Carefully" mix up a solution of water & Merry War Lye & drop in a chunk of lead & one of tin & observe the results.
PS; Even back in muzzle-loader days most Belgian double shotguns were brazed including the ribs. Many English ML'rs were totally soft soldered including the breech jointing.
Last edited by 2-piper; 05/03/11 11:02 AM. Reason: added info
