Scent Glands

[Darren]

What is the deal with cutting out deer's scent glands after shooting them? Everytime I shoot a deer I always have people asking me, (usually non hunters) if I removed the scent glands, and telling me the meat will be no good if I didn't. I have never cut out these glands, I usually skin my deer within 5 hours of shooting them and have never had any bad tasting meat.

So what is the real deal? is this an old wives tale or is their any truth to it?

[sealevel]

Wifes tail i never do i think its better never to even touch them with knife or hands. I shot a four piont in full rut never removed the scent glands it is good eating.

[ex bc guide]

As long as you do not touch the glans with your hands or the knife that you are using to cut the animal up there should be no problems at all,
Mike

[tmarschall]

When I have to haul the buck in the back of my cargo van, I cut them out if they are really ripe. Driving home with that scent filling the van just don't cut it. Other than that, I don't touch them and just leave them alone.

[oldtimer]

leave them alone and make sure they don't come in contact with your knife or any other part of the deer you want to save. Like TC i wouldn't want them inside a van. Shot a buck on Saturday- full rut- no problem.
Mike

[rock]

glands are never a problem like everybody else don't make contact with them that could be a problem.

[Thunderstix]

They are stinky for sure and I leave the skin on while hanging with no adverse effects.

[BlacktailStalker]

Guess I dont need to cut them out any more :)

[Shoey]

Guess I dont need to cut them out any more :)

Ya, this is interesting. I've always been nervous about cutting them out.
This is gonna be way easier and less stressful now. THANKS GUYS! :biggrin:

[mark]

i cut em off and save em, tie em to my boots when huntin for next big sucker. leaves a scent trail and masks mine.

[ruger#1]

mark i thought you ate them.