Yes the Sawyers does smell when you put it on. I spray all my hunting clothes down a week or so before hunting then hang them outside to dry. No more smell. This stuff really works BUT do not put it directly on your skin. Again DO NOT PUT DIRECTLY ON YOUR SKIN. I attract another bug called a chigger like a magnet. Almost ended up in the hospital three times from the little buggers. Since I have started using the Sawyers not one single tick or chigger on me in over 5 years. You can also buy the base chemical in many farm supply stores and mix it to a 5:1 ratio with water. Saves money.
Yes it is very effecrive and NO there is no smell if you apply early enough.