Let’s Talk About Top Secret Scent Mats
The Top Secret Scent Mats promise an innovative way to utilize your existing Thermacell unit or create scent trails while hunting. Manufactured by Top Secret, these mats offer a convenient and potentially effective method for scent dispersal. What caught my eye was the simplicity of the design and the dual-use application; an intriguing approach to scent control.
My quest for the Top Secret Scent Mats stemmed from a consistent struggle to maintain effective scent control during long hunting sits. I needed a reliable, portable, and versatile solution that didn’t involve constantly spraying attractants or carrying bulky scent dispersal systems. The promise of using existing Thermacell units to spread scent was especially attractive.
Upon unboxing, the Top Secret Scent Mats appeared unassuming, small, and lightweight. The mats themselves seem to be made of a fibrous material, designed to absorb and slowly release scent. They appear well-constructed, but my initial impression was one of reserved optimism; the proof would be in the field.
Compared to traditional scent wicks or electronic scent dispensers, the Top Secret Scent Mats offer a more streamlined and arguably more economical approach. Other methods often require specific devices or are limited in their portability. The Top Secret Scent Mats seemed like a potential game-changer, offering a simple drop-in solution for a widely-used device.
My initial excitement was tempered by the product’s simplicity. Could these small mats really make a difference? I was eager to test them in real-world hunting scenarios. I hoped that the versatility and ease of use would live up to the initial promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Top Secret Scent Mats to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Top Secret Scent Mats was during an early-season deer hunt in the Appalachian foothills. I placed one mat in my Thermacell unit, saturated it with a deer attractant scent, and deployed it near my stand. The other mats I hung along my approach path.
The performance in the cool, slightly damp conditions was noticeable. The Thermacell dispersed the scent in a subtle, consistent manner, and the hanging mats created a detectable scent trail. The ease of use was definitely a plus; simply saturate the mat and go.
I did notice that the mats saturated quickly, and I was concerned about how long the scent would last. I also questioned the effective range of the scent dispersal when used with the Thermacell. The scent dispersed much wider when hanging the mats compared to using the Thermacell unit.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Top Secret Scent Mats across multiple hunts, I found them to be a reliable, though somewhat limited, scent dispersal option. They held up well to repeated use, with minimal signs of wear and tear. The hanging mats, especially, showed good weather resistance.
The durability was adequate, considering their intended use as disposable or semi-disposable scent carriers. However, I noticed that repeated saturation and drying could cause the mats to become brittle over time. Care involves storing the mats in a scent-proof container to prevent premature scent loss.
Compared to using scent drags or traditional scent bombs, the Top Secret Scent Mats offer a more convenient and controlled scent dispersal. The mats may not provide the same immediate “punch” as a scent bomb, but they offer a consistent and subtle scent presence that can be beneficial for attracting game. They outperformed traditional scent wicks by offering a wide range dispersal.
Breaking Down the Features of Top Secret Scent Mats
Specifications
The Top Secret Scent Mats are designed to be compatible with any Thermacell unit. This is a key selling point, as it leverages the existing popularity of Thermacell devices for mosquito control. They are constructed from an absorbent fiber material.
The mats are sized to fit within the standard Thermacell repellent mat slot. They can also be hung using a small hole punched near the edge of the mat. This simple design allows for versatile deployment options. The mats themselves have no inherent scent.
Performance & Functionality
The Top Secret Scent Mats function effectively as a scent carrier and dispersal mechanism. When used with a Thermacell, the heat gently vaporizes the scent, creating a consistent scent stream. When hung, the scent slowly evaporates, creating a scent trail.
The strength of the scent dispersal depends on the type and concentration of scent used. Also, the amount applied affects the dispersal. The mats can be re-saturated multiple times, but scent longevity diminishes with each use.
The Top Secret Scent Mats perform their intended job well; they are easy to use and provide a flexible method for scent dispersal. The only weakness is the limited longevity of the scent. They meet expectations for ease of use and versatility.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is basic, but adequate for the intended purpose. The fibrous material is absorbent and holds scent effectively. The light weight of the mats makes them easy to carry and deploy.
The Top Secret Scent Mats are incredibly user-friendly. Simply saturate with scent and place in a Thermacell or hang them in your hunting area. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Top Secret Scent Mats are designed for single or limited-use applications. While they can withstand repeated saturation, their structural integrity will degrade over time. Proper storage in a scent-proof container can extend their lifespan.
Maintenance is minimal; simply dispose of the mats when they become overly brittle or lose their scent-holding capacity. No cleaning or repair is necessary. This simplifies use.
Accessories and Customization Options
No accessories come with the Top Secret Scent Mats. These mats are primarily designed to work with existing Thermacell units and commercially available scents. Users can customize the scent they use to attract specific game or mask their human odor.
The mats are compatible with virtually any liquid or gel scent. This versatility allows hunters to tailor their scent strategy to specific hunting conditions and game. The ability to choose any scent is a major advantage.
Pros and Cons of Top Secret Scent Mats
Pros
- Versatile Application: Can be used with Thermacell units or hung as scent trails, offering multiple deployment options.
- Ease of Use: Simple saturation and placement make them incredibly user-friendly, even for novice hunters.
- Lightweight & Portable: Easy to carry and deploy in the field, without adding significant weight or bulk.
- Scent Customization: Compatible with a wide range of liquid and gel scents, allowing hunters to tailor their attractant strategy.
- Economical: Inexpensive compared to electronic scent dispensers or complex scent dispersal systems.
Cons
- Scent Longevity: The scent can dissipate relatively quickly, requiring frequent re-saturation.
- Limited Durability: Repeated saturation and drying can cause the mats to become brittle and lose their integrity.
Who Should Buy Top Secret Scent Mats?
Perfect for: Hunters seeking a lightweight, versatile, and economical scent dispersal solution. Also, those already using Thermacell units for mosquito control can easily integrate these mats into their hunting strategy.
Who should skip this product? Hunters requiring long-lasting scent dispersal without the need for re-saturation. Additionally, those seeking a high-powered, wide-area scent dispersal system may find the Top Secret Scent Mats inadequate.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A scent-proof container for storing the mats and a selection of high-quality attractant scents.
Conclusion on Top Secret Scent Mats
The Top Secret Scent Mats offer a practical and affordable solution for scent dispersal in hunting scenarios. Their versatility and ease of use make them a valuable addition to any hunter’s toolkit. The $5.99 price is easily justified by the convenience and adaptability they provide.
I would personally recommend the Top Secret Scent Mats to hunters looking for a simple and effective scent dispersal method. While they may not replace more sophisticated scent systems, they offer a convenient and adaptable solution for attracting game and masking human odor. Give them a try and see if they give you the edge you need!