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

W H2026 03 Hardware W3788 TAH 0118Final
W H2026 03 Hardware W3788 TAH 0118Final

Hardware Review: Big Horn Armory Model 89 Take Down Carbine

Best known for their large-bore lever actions, Big Horn Armory of Cody, Wyo., adds to their .50 caliber arsenal with the new Model 89 Take Down (TD) Carbine. Chambered in the mighty .500 Smith & Wesson Magnum, the Model 89 TD, as the name implies, comes apart for easy storage and transport.

New for 2026: HiViZ Shooting Systems LiteWave Sight for Ruger Redhawk Alaskan

HiViz Shooting Systems has expanded its revolver lineup with the introduction of the LiteWave Front Sight for the Ruger Redhawk Alaskan. Designed specifically to complement the rugged performance of Ruger's Redhawk Alaskan revolver, the new LiteWave Front Sight promises fast target acquisition, durability and a customizable sight picture.

Gear Roundup: Spring Cleaning for Hunters

Need to clean the grime off your guns and gear this spring? Look no further than our hunter-specific cleaning lienup.

New for 2026: Henry Bear's Leg Pistol

Henry Repeating Arms is expanding its lineup with the new Bear’s Leg Pistol, a compact, utility-minded platform that blends the unmistakable profile of the classic Mare’s Leg with modern features. Offered in .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, .30-30 Winchester and .45-70 Government, the Bear’s Leg Pistol is purpose-built for versatility and hard use.

First Look: Easton 5mm Steel HIT Break-Off Insert

Easton has announced its 5mm Steel HIT Break-Off 8-32 Insert, giving archers full control over balance and performance. 

Turkey Tips: Unlock the West

Finding the right tom in the right mood to come to your calls out in the West usually comes down to covering ground with your eyes, not your feet. Remember it’s not uncommon to be afield all day, so don’t rush things. Read on for more tips on turkey hunting the West.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.