Still haven’t gotten the gifts purchased? Me either. It’s time to get off the dime. For shooters, there’s a range of hobby-work related gifts that can fit – or you can go to the old standbys without my help.
For gun people, it depends on the interests. As this is #wheelgunwednesday, I’ll start with something generic and easy. That wouldn’t include holsters; there are few gift items that are so personal in the field of shooting sports. Add to that, It’s late enough that custom makers, like Barranti Leather, Simply Rugged Holsters and Ritchie Leather, may not be able to get you the product on time. Simply Rugged does have a “GEAR-TO-GO” page and you may luck into something there.
For wheelgunners, a good choice can be loading strips; various types are available, including those from Bianchi,Tuff Products, DeSantis, Galco. Other makers are coming on line with new products soon – I’m evaluating some of them now.
If you know specifics about your revolver owner, speed loaders are still available for DA revolvers. While there are others, I gravitate mostly toward HKS Speed Loaders.
While you’re looking around, apparently new from Galco is a flashlight. A rebranded Streamlight ProTac 1L-1AA, which they distribute as a match for their belt-mounted Flashlight Carrier. Everyone should have a flashlight to hand all the time – this non-shooting gift is good for the gun pro on your list as well as the nonshooter.
As we go up in price, tools are helpful to keep various firearms running and in good condition. Recently, the fine folks at Fix It Sticks announced their Hardcase Rifle and Optics Toolkit. At $234, it may fit the right space on your shopping list for those who need tools for “ … properly torquing rifle actions, optics mounts, scope rings, sights, and other accessories.”
Packed in a Nanuk 225 hard case with a custom fitted foam interior, it’s useful on range trips, in the hunting lodge or in the home shop. The Fix It Sticks Torque Limiters – or the All-In-One Torque driver – are critical to get just the right amount of pressure on the fastener without breaking anything.
More expensive – and evaluated here – the Garmin Xero C1 chronograph appears a home-run for pro-consumer speed detection devices, ideal for ammunition reloaders, precision rifle shooters, archers, airgunners and more.
The MSRP of $599.99 may look high, but in my testing it’s the least aggravating chronograph I’ve used. Its ease of use has caused a great deal of interest and the results are close to the light-based consumer units I’ve used in the past.
Rechargeable and with a mobile application for data storage and transfer, it makes projectile speed assessment easy. I’m still hoping to get with Garmin engineers to discuss best use of the new unit. For now, it’s in great demand. For the serious shooter on your Christmas list, it’s a sure winner.
Looking for a place to shop online? Various manufacturers have online shopping for non-firearms gear, accessories, etc. Some are ShopRuger/ShopMarlin, Springfield Armory Store, SIGSauer.com (“Store” tab), and S&W “Authorized Licensed Products,” among others. Look for spare magazines (can’t ever have too many) or gear like that. And ammo is always appreciated.
It’s not about the stuff, but the appreciation of those on your gift-giving list. Feeling like you hit just the right spot in giving a gift is a pleasure too rarely experienced. It’s worth seeking.
— Rich Grassi