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

Lead Photo A
Lead Photo A

Top 5 Budget Hunting Riflescopes

There are few joys as great as a shooting with a high-end, premium optic, with its crystal-clear image from premium lenses. There are also the realities of a modest hunting budget, and staying within your financial means makes for a happier home. Curious about the latter? Check out this comprehensive list.

Range Review: DIY Howa Superlite 6.5 Creedmoor

Working with Brownells and Stocky's you can assemble this lightweight bolt gun just the way you want it!

Federal is the Official Ammunition of the Minnesota Wild

Federal Ammunition has announced it will be the official ammunition of the Minnesota Wild for the 2026-27 season. This agreement with the hometown NHL franchise is historic as it is the first partnership with a major league professional sports team in Federal's 104-year history.

#SundayGunday: CVA Cascade Rimfire

On this week's #SundayGunday, we’re checking out the Cascade Rimfire, from CVA, a lightweight rimfire absolutely perfect for tackling squirrel season. Chambered in .22 Long Rifle, the Cascade Rimfire sports an 18-inch barrel that hits the perfect sweet spot between easy accuracy and maneuverability. Learn more about it in this exclusive video.

Beretta’s 500th Birthday Bash

Beretta has operated in the village of Gardone since 1526. By the 1880s it was the heart of the Val Trompia.

Moultrie Updates Metal Feeder Lineup for 2026

Moultrie has introduced its all-new lineup of heavy-duty metal feeders, available exclusively at Bass Pro Shops. The new lineup includes the 350-Pound Sled, 300-Pound Broadcast and 600-Pound Broadcast metal feeders, all engineered to put bucks on a daytime feeding pattern.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.