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

Ledeinterior Department
Ledeinterior Department

Funding Authorized to Conserve Critical Wetland Habitat

The Department of the Interior has announced that $44.79 million in North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) funds have been approved by the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission. They will provide the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service—and its partners—the ability to conserve, restore or enhance 185,203 acres of critical wetland and associated upland habitat for migratory birds across the United States.

Behind the Bullet: The .30-378 Weatherby Magnum

Curious about one of the original wonder cartridges? A cartridge that literally broke the 6000 fps mark with specialized, lightweight options? Follow along with Phil Massaro as he dives into the .30-378 Weatherby Magnum.

New for 2026: Muddy Cloak OZ3 and OZ5 Ozone Generators

Muddy Outdoors has launched the Cloak OZ3 and OZ5 Ozone Generators—two high-output scent control solutions designed to give hunters a true edge in the field.

Varmint Hunting 101: Tips and Overview

Looking for a way to spend your offseason that scratches your hunting itch? Try varmint hunting. Follow along with Tim Hovey as he discusses how to get into the pursuit, and some basic tips to get you rolling.

MDT Expands ACC Elite Compatibility to Savage 110 Short Action and CZ 457 Platforms

MDT has expanded its ACC Elite chassis system, adding compatibility for the CZ 457 and Savage 110 short action platforms.

Looking for Hogs vs. Hunting Wild Boars

There is no right or wrong way to hunt hogs. But in the author’s opinion there are methods that are more rewarding than others if sporting challenge, and not merely eradication, is the goal.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.