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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 week on #SundayGunday, were discussing a new classic hunting rifle, the RL Bolt-Action from Spandau. Chambered in the classic and dependable .308 Winchester, the first thing you’ll notice is that this rig looks a lot like a wood stocked Remington 700, and that’s because that’s basically what it is. Learn more about it in this exclusive video.
Curious how to get started in small game hunting? Red on as Tim Hovey reflects on how small-game hunting shaped his development as a hunter, taught him patience, stalking, shooting and fieldcraft. He describes hunting rabbits, squirrels, hares, and marmots in Idaho, highlighting the challenges unique to both rimfire and shotgun. He also recounts introducing his daughters to hunting, and encourages experienced hunters to revisit their small-game roots.