Another hunting season has come and (almost) gone, and if you're anything like us, that means two things. First, of course, you've still got hunting on the brain, but second, you're getting ready for Christmas. If those two interests happen to converge for a few of the loved ones on your list, read on for a selection of great gifts we've found over the course of the year we think your family will love.
Garmin Xero C1 Pro
Few companies have shaken up the chronograph market in the way Garmin has with its Xero C1 Pro. Pocket sized, less than six ounces with tripod attached, and up to 6 hours (or 2000 shots) of battery life, the Xero C1 Pro is ready for a full day at the range. Since the device isn't triggered by muzzle blast, and can record speeds from 100 to 5000 fps, it will work not only for regular firearms, but for bows and suppressed guns as well. An easy to read screen and intuitive interface make the device easy to operate, as does its ability to pair with the ShotView app on a user's smartphone. All in all, the Garmin Xero C1 Pro makes for the perfect do-it-all range tool for the hunter looking to take his craft to the next level, and perhaps the next furthest yardage. garmin.com; MSRP: $599.99
FoodSaver V1100 Cordless Handheld Food Vacuum Sealer
This may seem an odd inclusion, but hear me out. Every hunter knows that a good vacuum sealer can pay dividends when prepping deer for the freezer at home. For those hunters who travel, however, wouldn't it be nice to get that meat sealed before it even hits the cooler for the trip back? Check out the Foodsaver V1100 Cordless Handheld Food Vacuum Sealer. Incredibly efficient, this sealer pairs up with a valve on the quart- or gallon-sized zipper bags the company sells, and voids the package of any air around your meat at the mere press of a button. Even better? For larger components, like ribs, the sealer fits perfectly on large Hefty brand storage vacuum bags (though these are really intended for soft goods, I've found them useful in cases like this). Check out foodsaver.com for more information, or simply pick one up at your local Wal-Mart or culinary store. MSRP: $31.49
Real Avid Master Gun Workstation
Designed for the tinkerers, the DIYers, and full-on at-home gunsmiths, the Real Avid Master Gun Workstation is designed to hold a rifle solid and stable, whether for cleaning or maintenance. It accomplishes this with a form fitting Gun Gripper yoke, though what really sets it apart is this yoke's single-handed adjustability. Riding on twin, polished metal bars, the yoke boasts 18.3 inches of travel to accommodate virtually any size of long gun. A levelling knob aids in optics mounting—allowing for micro-adjustments of +/-3 degrees—while built-in compartments allow for the storage of cleaners, brushes and cleaning jags. realavid.com; MSRP: $199.99
Dull Boy Cuddlefish
If you're in the market for a cool, truly one-of-a-kind gift, check out Dull Boy Blades. Handmade in Texas, the company specializes in knives that blur the line between utilitarian efficacy and straight-up art. With a razor-sharp edge crafted from a blend of high-carbon steels (1084, 80crv2 and 52100), the knives slip through hide with a zipper-like ease and—unlike their name—do not go dull in a hurry. When they do, however, the softer nature of these steels make them easy to re-sharpen. The Cuddlefish in particular is perfect for skinning, with its 3.25-inch, belly-heavy blade working in tandem with a curved spine for more targeted pressure delivery. What makes these knives a particularly one-of-a-kind gift? They're not available all the time. Not only are the knives custom-made, they're all made in a one-man shop, so knives are released in drops of whatever is available at the time. Keep an eye on dull-boy-blades.myshopify.com for your chance at snagging one of these unique pieces for a loved one. MSRP: $250
Mystery Ranch Treehouse Whitetail Pack
Did you hunter discover he needs a more ergonomic storage system while up in the stand this fall? Look no further than the Mystery Ranch Treehouse Whitetail Pack. Coming in three different sizes and two different styles (the 38- and 16-liter versions are traditional backpacks, while the 9- is more of a fanny pack), these packs were designed from the ground up with treestand hunters in mind; the Whitetail variant in particular were further crafted via an exclusive partnership with Scheels and Veil Camo. Boasting the latter's West River pattern and sporting removable tree straps, these packs will carry whatever is needed into the woods, then disappear once in position without a fuss. For more information, check out mysteryranch.com or scheels.com, where these packs are exclusively available. MSRP: $139.99-$239.99
Lacrosse Ursa MS
If the hunter on your list is looking for a durable, long-lasting backcountry boot, look no further than the Lacrosse Ursa MS. Designed in conjunction with serious backcountry hunters, the Ursa MS boasts a SuperFabric and Tec Tuff upper for optimal abrasion resistance, while a GoreTex liner keeps water out while still expelling sweat. Below, a Vibram Mont outsole keeps your feet planted even on steep, slick terrain. Inside the boot, a bi-fit board combines the shank, lasting board and midsole for a large reduction in weight—the boots weigh in at around 3.1 pounds per pair—despite increasing comfort. The Ursa MS are available in Gunmetal/Orange or Brown/Gold color configurations, both uninsulated. lacrossefootwear.com; MSRP: $300
Remington Wingmaster Multi-Tool
For the waterfowler in your family, check out the Remington Wingmaster Multi-Tool. A duck-hunter's do-it-all device, the Wingmaster features fully stainless-steel construction to keep it from rusting and pitting in the marshes. Tools on it include a scissor head with bone notch for breaking wing bones; a 1-3/4-inch drop-point blade; a 3-inch saw blade; a birding gut hook; and a 12-gauge/20-gauge choke-tube tool. Ergonomic handles with rubber inserts keep the tool firmly in hand, with a push-button flashlight integrated into the rubber. A heavy-duty nylon sheath allows the tool to be carried right on the belt, for easy access. remington.com; MSRP: $39.95
Galco Field Grade Zippered Scoped Rifle/Shotgun Case
Are you sick of seeing the hunter on your list throw his rifle in that ratty old bag or guitar case, simply because it wont fit a traditional case with a scope on it? Galco has you covered, with its Field Grade Zippered Scoped Rifle/Shotgun Case. Constructed of khaki cotton duck, the case is offset with dark Havana leather trim and brass hardware, for a classic look. Far from simply a pretty case, however, the Field Grade protects the finish on rifles with thick, acrylic fleece. Even the zipper is nylon (instead of brass) to prevent scuffing to wood. The case comes with a leather carry handle/shoulder strap, that can double as a rifle sling if needed. Models are available to fit guns in 40-, 45- and 48-inch overall lengths, with scopes attached. galcogunleather.com; MSRP: $237
Kryptek Flyway Series
Is there still some late season waterfowling to go for the hunter on your list? Get him some gear from the Kryptek Flyway series, to ensure he stays hidden and warm during the final push. An extreme-weather jacket like the Flyway Koldo would be a great choice, finished as it is in Kryptek Flyway Deadzone and intended for the wet and cold. It utilizes three-layer DWR wateproof fabric to keep the damp out, boasts a number of zippered pockets to keep gear secure and a hood for when its really coming down. The calling card of the Flyway series, however, is layering, so there are plenty of options to choose from, be it the Njord vest, Lykos II puffer jacket, gaiters, gloves or simply Merino baselayers. kryptek.com; MSRP: $19.99-$329.99
Leupold Bridger Performance Eyewear
It's hard to overestimate the importance of a good pair of polarized sunglasses. Whether defeating glare off the snow, looking into the sun at game or simply keeping the wind from your eyes, they can prove the difference between seeing game and making your shot, or missing the opportunity entirely. Better than simple polarized eyewear, Leupold uses a process they call In-Fused Polarization, which fuses the polarization film between two of the lens layers. This means the polarization will not scratch or deteriorate over time. Finally, the lenses are shatterproof and ballistic rated, to keep you safe whether on the range or in the field. Best of all, all Leupold eyewear is $50 off through Christmas eve! leupold.com; MSRP: $159.99 $109.99
