The Outdoors' Best Smells

by
posted on August 17, 2010
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
dogs_ah2015_fs.jpg (8)
Research shows that scent evokes memories and past emotions with more potency than any other sense. A psychologist would say that is why the scent of leather makes me think of football; why fresh-cut grass evokes memories of summer; and why one whiff of my mother-in-law's perfume terrifies the hell out of me.
It also probably explains the decades-old love affair sportsmen have shared with Hoppe's No. 9. Not only does it have a naturally appealing smell, but it stirs memories of times spent afield, a favorite over/under and maybe even the first time Dad showed us how to clean a gun. I love the stuff and, when I'm not trying to dab it behind my significant other's ears, I'm applying it to my guns. Problem is I only get to enjoy its scent wafting through my gun room for an hour or two before it's gone. Finally, though, Hoppe's has created the product sportsmen have demanded for so long: A Hoppe's No. 9 air freshener!
Let's celebrate its release by naming our other all-time favorite outdoor smells. I've listed my top 10 below. I look forward to reading some of yours.
-Burnt shotshell powder
-Roasting (skin-on) mallards
-Gundog puppy breath
-Wet retriever
-That old, family hunting cabin smell
-Pan-fried quail
-Neoprene
-Pheasant feathers
-Wet, decaying leaves underfoot (think grouse/woodcock season)
-Duck blind Thermoscoffee

 

Latest

Pulsar Thermion Lede
Pulsar Thermion Lede

Hardware Review: Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XL60

Simply put, thermal weapon sights represent the greatest technological advantage a hunter or home protector can have since the advent of the firearm itself. The Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF is a great example. Check out Jeff Johnston's Hardware Review of it here.

American Made: What’s New at Griffin & Howe?

The classic brand is once again thriving in New Jersey, offering a hosts of products, services and even courses.

#SundayGunday: Heritage Manufacturing Model 92

On this week's #SundayGunday, we’re diving into a rifle that blends classic American design with modern manufacturing: the Heritage Model 92 lever-action. This gun pays homage to one of the most iconic lever-actions ever created, John Browning’s legendary Model 92. Learn more about it in this exclusive video.

Premium Upland Loads: Worth the Price?

Not all shotshells are created equal. “Premium” loads offer elevated performance at a cost, but are they necessary? To find out, continue reading.

Benelli Ultimate Holiday Giveaway

Benelli and GunBroker.com have partnered to launch Benelli’s Win a Gun for Every Season Holiday Giveaway by GunBroker.

Know How: Hunting Fall Turkeys with your Dog

Curious about hunting fall turkeys with your dog? Join Scott Haugen as he runs through the process and tactics.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.