Father's Day is right around the corner, and if your dad is a shooter, you already know the struggle. He's particular. He probably already has what he needs. And if you get it wrong, that gift might sit in a drawer next to three other things he didn't need either.
We know a better approach with some safe bets, gear he didn't realize he needed, and a priceless gift you have to stay to the end to see.
Safe Gifts for Dad | The Classics
Some gifts will always just work. The right ammunition, a new magazine for his style of firearm, new gun bags, and cleaning supplies. All of these are things a gun lover goes through and will always have more room for.
"We can always use more ammo," said John McClain, gun expert with Team Armscor. "We can always use more magazines."
With these gifts in mind, we have a word of caution. Gifting ammo and magazines do require some homework. You'll need to do a little research to know what he's shooting to get the right fit.
Underrated Gifts for Dad
This list goes beyond the obvious and includes practical items that become indispensable.
A quality everyday flashlight tops the list. John explained he never used to carry one until he found the right fit. Now it's a staple.
"The number of times I use the thing is insane," he said.
Other underrated wins include batteries (his optic, headlamp, and flashlight all need them, and they're always running out at the wrong moment), a compact first aid kit stocked with tourniquets, bandages, and, yes, even tweezers.
John noted you'd be surprised how often tweezers come in handy at the range. Finally, another idea is battery-operated push lights. Stick one inside his gun safe, and he'll wonder how he ever lived without it. The same goes for lights in a vehicle trunk or a hunting pack.
These aren't flashy gifts. They're the ones that get used every single week. Shop accessories and gear at advancedtactical.com.
The best father's day gift
If you really want to get the best gift for your dad this Father's Day, it won't be what you expect. It's not an expensive gun or accessory.
"Most people will share an experience long before they ever talk about how amazing a gift was," he said.
Sign him up for a pistol or long-range rifle class. Book a machine gun rental for an afternoon. Look into a nighttime hog or coyote hunt if that's his thing. Or plan an extended fishing or camping trip. Think of something off the beaten path that requires a little commitment and a little effort. Go with him if you can. It'll mean the world.
"A gift is something material," John said, "but an experience is something that is emotional."
And the experiences that go sideways? Those might be the best ones. The rain-soaked fishing trip that had you both soaked and miserable could become your favorite story you both tell for years.
What to get shooters for father's day
Father's Day comes around once a year. The time you spend with your dad doesn't.
As John said, "Time is free, but it's also priceless. And you don't get it back."
Whether it's a box of ammo or a day at the range together, make it count this June.
Father's Day Gift Guide for Dads Who Like Guns
Classic Safe Bets Underrated Gems Experiences
- Ammunition (verify caliber)
- Magazines (verify firearm)
- Gun bag
- Cleaning supplies and tools.
- Quality EDC flashlight
- Batteries (for optics, headlamps, flashlights)
- First aid kit
- Tourniquets
- Tweezers
- Battery-operated push lights
- Shooting classes
- Machine gun rental
- Nighttime hog or coyote hunt
- Extended fishing or camping trips
- Visit to the range
