Scent-control outerwear has been marketed to the bowhunter for several years as the key in eliminating human scent and getting close to big game. However, with blaze orange regulations in place for rifle hunters, many thought that scent-control clothing was not as important. Man, are they wrong.

Even with blaze orange clothing on, chances are that big game will smell you long before they ever see you. By not taking scent control into consideration, many rifle hunters are spooking big bucks before they ever get a chance to see that large rack. Big bucks only get that way by being smart. They learn not to move during daytime, and most of all they learn to trust their nose and steer clear of anything that smells of danger.

Dry-Plus®, Scent-Lok®, Silent Suede™, and Thinsulate™
Cabela's realized the need for scent-control outerwear and introduced their Dry-Plus Silent Suede Blaze Extreme Parka and Bibs. The entire set features a full Scent-Lok liner to fully adsorb and trap human scent. Throwing it in the dryer before heading to the field also easily recharges this activated carbon lining.

The outer shell of the Blaze Extreme clothing features Cabela's famous Silent Suede fabric. This soft, quiet, low-nap fabric became an instant success with bowhunters. Now, rifle hunters can enjoy it's silent protection in blaze orange models. The low-nap fabric is quiet as fleece, tough as suede, and it sheds burrs, seeds and leaves much better than other fabrics do.

The outer shell is laminated with Cabela's exclusive Dry-Plus laminate, giving you waterproof, breathable protection against all that Mother Nature can dish out. By the time rifle season comes around, winter has usually set in. The Blaze Extreme clothing incorporates a layer of Thinsulate™ Ultra, giving you the extra insulation you need, without the extra bulk.

Blaze Extreme Parka
When I tried on the parka, I was very impressed with the fit. When that Boone and Crockett bruiser steps into the open, you don't want a jacket getting in your way. Unlike some manufacturer's jackets, the articulated sleeves allow you to easily shoulder a rifle, even in a cramped tree stand. A waist drawstring allows you to fit the parka to your size and seal out the cold.

As with all of Cabela's quality parkas, this one is loaded with features. Velcro® adjustment cuffs allow air to circulate on warm days or keep the wind out when the temps dip below freezing. The four-piece visored hood gives you ample protection, and the adjustments allow you to draw it down and have it move easily with your head.

Two large front cargo pockets and an inside security pocket give plenty of room to store all your extra gear from gloves to extra cartridges, and even a midday snack. I liked the hidden handwarmer pockets the most. Lined with fleece, you can keep your hands ready and warm while waiting for that buck to appear. With 200 grams of Thinsulate™ Ultra in the body, 150 in the sleeves, and 100 in the hood, it is just the right amount of insulation to keep warm on a blustery winter day.

Blaze Extreme Bibs
Most late fall hunters have figured out that bibs are the secret to staying warm. They provide excellent coverage and warmth, and can be easily shed at the truck. Also, by covering you up to your chest, they prevent any nasty drafts. The Blaze Extreme bibs fit very comfortably for easy walking through the woods and climbing to your stand. The 3/4 length leg zippers allow you to slip them on without taking your boots off and provide ventilation when the sun peeks out in the afternoon.

Two front cargo pockets and a rear security pocket give you even more room for all your gear and another place to keep your hands warm. The suspenders fit well, while the elastic back keeps the cold from sneaking in. With 150 grams of Thinsulate Ultra, you have just the right amount of insulation to stay warm on your stand, but not too much for still hunting or working that deer drive.

Excellent Value
What impressed me the most about the Blaze Extreme Outerwear was all the features for the money. You get a waterproof, breathable, scent-proof, insulated garment with an outershell of Cabela's soft and quiet Silent Suede fabric - all with the parka. Add an inexpensive pair of bibs for a very affordable package. The Blaze Extreme is offered in straight Blaze Orange, or you can get the popular Blaze Horizon pattern, which allows you to break up your outline, while still fulfilling blaze orange requirements. If you are looking for new blaze orange hunting clothing, you just can't beat Blaze Extreme.

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