Even the slightest scent of human presence can spook a deer and cause them to flee.

This article will explore the best scent control for deer hunting, including scent elimination products, clothing, and hunting techniques.

Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a beginner, these methods will help you reduce your scent and increase your chances of a successful hunt.

So, let's dive into:

Best Scent Control for Deer Hunting:

Facts:

Deer have an incredible sense of smell; they can smell a human odor out to around 400 yards without other varying environmental factors considered.

This means that even the slightest human scent can alert a deer to the presence of humans in the area.

Here are some of the best scent control products for deer hunting:

1. Dead Down Wind - Antiperspirant and Deodorant:

Dead Down Wind

Via Amazon.com

Dead Down Wind is a brand that offers a range of scent control products for hunting, including soaps, shampoos, detergents, sprays, and wipes.

They help eliminate human odor, one of the most significant factors that can alert deer and other game animals to your presence.

When you use Dead Down Wind products, you reduce your scent footprint and increase your chances of remaining undetected by deer.

Why is it important?

This can be particularly important when bow hunting. You need to get in close proximity to your prey without being detected.

How does it work?

Dead Down Wind products use a combination of enzymes and other compounds that neutralize the odor-causing bacteria on a hunter's body and clothing.

How to Use Dead Down Wind Effectively:

  • Pre-treat your hunting clothes, boots, and other gear with Dead Down Wind products.
  • Shower with Dead Down Wind soap.
  • Apply Dead Down Wind scent-eliminating spray to your clothing, body and other gear. This will neutralize remaining odors and prevent new odors from forming.
  • Store your clothing and gear in a scent-free environment. This will keep your gear fresh and clean.
  • Reapply the Dead Down Wind products periodically.

Pros:

  • Easy to use
  • Good for scent elimination
  • Safe for the environment.

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Time-consuming
  • Not 100% effective.

2. Duke Cannon - "Big Ol' Brick of Hunting Soap":

Duke Cannon Big 'Ol Brick of Hunting Soap, Scent Eliminator, 10oz

Via Amazon.com

Duke Cannon's "Big Ol' Brick of Hunting Soap" is a bar soap that is marketed towards hunters, specifically those who engage in deer hunting.

It is designed to help hunters eliminate their scent to better blend in with the environment and increase their chances of success.

How does it work?

The soap is made with a unique formula that features a blend of pine scent and activated charcoal, which is said to help neutralize odors and leave the user feeling clean and refreshed.

It is also made with steel-cut grains to help exfoliate and remove dirt and other impurities from the skin.

The best part?

It is made in the USA and is cruelty-free, with no harsh chemicals.

But there’s a problem:

Using this soap daily could lead to over-exfoliation, which can cause dryness, irritation, and even breakouts.

Additionally, the soap may be too harsh for people with sensitive skin.

Therefore, I suggest using it once in 3 days and twice one week.

Pros:

  • It can eliminate bad scent or odor.
  • It is good at cleansing and exfoliation of dirt.
  • It contains natural ingredients that are not harsh chemicals.
  • It can last a long due to its large size

Cons:

  • It is not suitable for sensitive skin.
  • It is not globally available.

3. Super Charged Scent Killer:

Scent Killer 546-33 Wildlife Research Super Charged Scent Killer Clothing Wash

Via Amazon.com

Super charged scent killer is a special scent control product because it contains many active ingredients formulated to neutralize and eliminate human odor.

Some active ingredients in super charged scent killers include enzymes and other odor-neutralizing agents that attack the bacteria that produce odor, thereby eliminating your scent.

How To Use Super Charged Scent Killer Effectively:

  • Apply it to your hunting gear and clothing before you head out to the field.
  • Apply the Super Charged scent killer to your skin, particularly to the areas where you sweat.
  • Reapply the scent killer as needed throughout your hunt to ensure that you are always effectively neutralizing your scent.
  • This product is also used as a laundry detergent for washing, click here to learn how to use it for washing hunting clothes.

Pros:

  • It improves hunting success
  • It enhances safety during deer hunting
  • It increases the versatility of hunting equipment.

Cons:

  • "Super charged" scent killers are more expensive than other scent killers.
  • They contain chemical compounds that could be problematic for individuals with allergies.

4. Scent Crusher Ozone Gear Bag:

Scent Crusher Ozone Gear Bag with Backpack Straps

Via cabelas.com

The Scent Crusher Ozone Gear Bag is a popular product many hunters use to eliminate odors from their hunting gear, including clothing, boots, and other accessories.

How does it help?

The device uses advanced ozone technology to destroy bacteria and odor molecules, leaving your gear scent-free and ready for your next hunting trip.

By using the Scent Crusher Ozone Gear Bag, you can reduce the amount of scent you carry into the field, increasing your chances of success.

How To Use Scent Crusher Ozone Gear Bag Effectively:

  • Ensure that all your hunting gear is clean and dry.
  • Place your clothes and other hunting gear inside the bag but keep the bag neat.
  • Turn on the ozone generator and plug the gear bag into a power source.
  • Wait for 30 minutes to make sure the ozone has penetrated your clothes so that all odors will be eliminated.
  • After 30 minutes, turn off the generator and open the bag to remove your gear.
  • Your gear should now be scent-free and ready for your next hunting trip.

Pros:

  • It can eliminate odor.
  • It saves time.
  • It is long-lasting.

Cons:

  • It is relatively expensive compared to other hunting gear.
  • It has limited capacity.
  • It can be noisy because the bag uses an ozone generator to neutralize odors.

5. Scent Killer Gold:

Wildlife Research Scent Killer Gold Spray Combo Pack, 44-Ounce

Via Amazon.com

Scent Killer Gold contains a proprietary blend of odor-fighting ingredients, including a powerful enzyme that helps break down human odors and other natural and synthetic compounds that help mask or neutralize unwanted scents.

The product will be sprayed on clothing and gear before heading to the field.

How To Use Scent Killer Gold Effectively:

  • Wash your hunting clothes with scent-free detergents and allow them to dry completely.
  • Shake the bottle of scent killer gold well, then spray your clothes with the Scent Killer Gold until it gets saturated.
  • Allow the Scent Killer Gold to dry on your clothes before you put them on.
  • Store your hunting clothes in a sealed bag until you can use them.

Pros:

  • Effective scent elimination.
  • Long-lasting scent control.
  • It can be easily applied to gear and clothing.

Cons:

  • It costs more than some other scent elimination products.
  • It only works for some kinds of deer.

6. Scent-A-Way MAX Odorless Spray:

Hunters Specialties Scent-A-Way Spray

Via Amazon.com

Scent-A-Way MAX Odorless Spray eliminates odors on your hunting clothes, boots, and other gear that could spook deer.

It is made with activated carbon and zeolite to trap and absorb odor molecules, and it's also unscented so that it won't add any foreign odors to your hunting area.

Simply spray it on your gear before heading out to your hunting spot to help you stay undetected by deer.

Pros:

  • It is environmentally friendly
  • It is long-lastingIt e
  • iminates odor-causing bacteria from your hunting gear
  • It can be used on various surfaces, including fabrics, plastics, and metals.

Cons:

  • It is not 100% effective
  • It may stain clothes
  • It may irritate skin
  • It is more expensive than other sprays.

7. Ozonics HR230 Ozone Generator:

Ozone Generators for Hunting

Via Amazon.com

Ozonics HR230 is a portable ozone generator that emits ozone molecules into the air to neutralize human scent.

It has a rechargeable battery that lasts for more than 6 hours. It's the updated model of Ozonics HR230.

How to Use Ozonics HR230 Effectively:

  • Mount your Ozonics HR230 in a location that allows it to distribute ozone over your hunting area effectively.
  • Switch on the Ozonics HR230 by pressing the power button. This will make the device emit Ozone, which will help to eliminate odors.
  • Once the Ozonics HR230 is running and positioned correctly, you can begin your hunt.

Pros:

  • Effective scent elimination.
  • Its battery is long-lasting.
  • It is durable and reliable.

Cons:

  • It causes skin irritation.
  • It is more expensive than other hunting accessories.

8. Ozonics Kinetic Backpack:


Ozonics Kinetic Pack - Modular Backpack System for Hunting - Quiet Soft-Touch Material - Padded Shoulders & Adjustable Straps

Via Amazon.com

Ozonics Kinetic Backpack is a backpack that uses ozone technology to deodorize hunting gear and clothing.

It has a built-in ozone generator that can run for up to 8 hours and a carbon filter to capture any remaining odors.

Pros:

  • It has a ventilated back panel that allows for easy air circulation.
  • It has ample storage space to keep all your hunting essentials.
  • It is rugged and durable.

Cons:

  • It is relatively expensive compared to other backpacks in its class.
  • It emits ozone which is harmful to animals and humans.
  • It has heavyweight.

9. Scentlok Full Season Taktix Jacket and Pants:

ScentLok Mens Hunting Clothes - Taktix Full Season Water Repelling and Odor Adsorbing Camo Hunting Pants

Via Amazon.com

This hunting apparel features ScentLok's Carbon Alloy technology, which combines activated carbon, treated carbon, and zeolite to capture and neutralize human scent.

The clothes also have moisture-wicking and breathable properties to comfort you during long hunts.

Pros:

  • It contains scent control technology that helps to eliminate odors and keep you undetected.
  • It is made from soft fabrics which make you comfortable.
  • It can withstand harsh hunting environments.
  • It can help you blend in with your surroundings.

Cons:

  • It's heavy and less breathable than other hunting clothing options.
  • The garments can either be too tight or loose in certain areas.
  • It is not 100% effective at odor elimination.

Tips On Using Scent Killer For Deer Hunting:

1. Choose A Quality Scent Killer:

There are many brands of scent killers on the market, so it's important to choose an effective and reliable product.

The scent control products above are designed for hunting and have a proven track record.

2. Apply scent killer to your clothing:

Scent killers such as 'super charged' scent killer and scent killer 'gold' should be applied to your hunting clothes before you head out into the woods.

Make sure to spray or apply the scent killer to all your clothing, including your hat, gloves, and boots.

3.  Use scent-free soap and shampoo

In addition to using scent killer on your clothing, it's also a good idea to use scent-free soap and shampoo before you go hunting.

This will help to reduce your scent further and increase your chances of success.

4. Store your clothing properly:

After applying a scent killer to your clothing, store it in a scent-free container, such as a plastic bag or the scent crusher ozone clear bag.

To use the scent crusher ozone gear bag, place your hunting gear inside the bag and run the ozone generator for 30 minutes.

This will effectively neutralize any odor on your gear and help ensure your clothing remains scent-free until you're ready to use it.

Ozone Generating Closets

Via dickssportinggoods.com


What Makes These Scent Control Products The Best?

The scent control products above are often recommended for deer hunting because deer have an excellent sense of smell and can easily detect human scent.

They aim to minimize or eliminate your odor that can spook deer and other animals, making them more likely to approach closer to the hunter undetected.

FOR EXAMPLE

When a hunter uses the Scent Killer Gold, they reduce the scent they leave behind, making it more difficult for deer to pick up on your presence.

Should you use other scent-eliminating techniques?

Yes, using other techniques, such as staying downwind and avoiding excessive movement, is still essential.

Besides that, using scent control products can be a valuable tool in improving your chances of success in deer hunting due to the following reasons:

  • They are effective at eliminating human scent.
  • They are long-lasting compared to other products.
  • They are easy to use and control.
  • They are safe for all hunting gear, including clothing, boots, and accessories.
  • They can be used in various hunting situations, including bow hunting, rifle hunting, and muzzle loader hunting.

How Important Is Scent Control For Deer Hunting?

deer rub 2

Scent control is a critical factor in deer hunting. As earlier stated, every deer has an excellent sense of smell and can detect human odors from a considerable distance.

If a deer detect a hunter's scent, it will likely avoid the area and not come close enough for a shot.

How to prevent it?

To minimize human scent, hunters use various scent-control methods, such as washing their hunting clothes in scent-free detergent, body wash and shampoo, and scent-blocking clothing.

They may also use scent-control sprays, cover scents, and other scent-masking products.

NOT FOOLPROOF

It's important to note that while scent control can help minimize human odor, it's not foolproof.

Other factors such as wind direction, temperature, and humidity can all affect how far a hunter's scent will travel and how long it will linger in an area.

Therefore, hunters must also consider these factors and adjust their strategies accordingly.


Conclusion:

Scent control is a crucial element of successful deer hunting, and many different products and techniques are available to help you increase your chances of successful hunting.

Whether you opt for scent-free clothing, scent-eliminating sprays, or other scent control products, choosing high-quality options and using them consistently throughout your hunting trip is important.

Additionally, it's worth noting that scent control is just one aspect of effective deer hunting.

Other important factors to consider include your choice of hunting location, your knowledge of deer behavior and movements, and overall hunting strategy.

By taking a comprehensive approach and prioritizing scent control and other important elements, you can maximize your chances of a successful and rewarding deer hunting experience.

Happy hunting!

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About the Author

Hi, I'm Robert Gate, a hunter from Texas and Founder of ArcheryTopic.

I first learned archery from my dad when I was 12 years old. He gave me a Mathew bow as a gift and instantly fell in love with the pursuit.

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