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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.
This lightweight precision hunting rifle from Bergara is idea for harvesting small game and varmints, particularly when chambered in hard-hitting .17 HMR.
The Point at Pintail in Queenstown, Md., came alive on Sept 26 when shooters from across the country gathered for a day of competition, camaraderie and purpose at the 11th Annual Benelli USA Invitational.
The only thing I can confidently say about elk hunting is that education is ongoing. After decades of autumns spent in elk country, I have learned a few hard and fast guidelines to heighten my odds of success, even without standing over an elk at the end of the hunt. Elk hunting is changing from season to season. Every lesson you learn from a previous season of hunting has merit in overcoming the low odds already stacked against you.
During the 36th Annual Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF) Banquet & Auction, which was held Sept. 10, legendary NASCAR Hall-of-Famer, sportsman, lifelong conservationist, and immediate past Chairman of the CSF Board of Directors Richard Childress was honored with the Dingell-Young Sportsmen’s Legacy Award—CSF’s highest Award.