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

LEDE Rifle
LEDE Rifle

Hardware Review: Steyr Pro Hunter III SX

While its most recognizable gun remains the ever-futuristic-looking AUG tactical bullpup first made in 1977 and still used by militaries worldwide, Steyr also makes handguns and hunting rifles. Its Pro Hunter III SX rifle is an all-around hunting rifle and a great example of Steyr quality, a trait much easier felt than described. I’ll try it anyway.

NRA Foundation Awards $250,000 Grant to USA Shooting to Support National Team Programs

The NRA Foundation announced a $250,000 grant to USA Shooting to support the organization’s national team programs.

Copper Mine Helps Boost Arizona’s Bighorn Population

One of the world’s most productive copper mines is also one of Arizona’s most reliable sources of Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep. The bighorns are not shy about entering the Freeport McMoRan open-pit mining operation—near Morenci, Ariz.—but predators are. As a result, there’s no natural check on sheep population growth.

#SundayGunday: Savage Arms AC30 B.O.B. Suppressor

This week, Shooting Illustrated's Jay Grazio makes a guest appearance to showcase the Savage Arms AC30 B.O.B. suppressor.

Upland Birds of the Wild West

Big game attracts many hunters to the West, but the region is also home to some of the country’s best upland bird hunting.

Big Buck Business: Whitetail Gear Roundup

Have you noticed some holes in your deer kit this season? Some shortcomings that need addressing? Check out this roundup of whitetail gear tailor made for dropping big bucks.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.