Gifts for Men - We ask a male writer for some insight on nifty gifts for guys

Most likely the man for whom one is buying a Christmas gift has closets and drawers full of ties and shirts, sweaters and socks he has accumulated as gifts over the years. 

He does not need any more reminders of his work, but he is probably ready to be given things that shout, “Let’s play.” 

From what gifts does one choose to give him to spark his enjoyment?

How about shopping at a sporting goods store? A shopper could get some golf gear, like a new putter to give him the confidence to straddle the ball and stroke a 40 foot birdie putt.  One could spend as little as $80 or top one’s purchase limit at $200.

At the same store, the shopper could pick up a kayak, from $119 to $1,199 and send the guy down the rapids for the time of his life. 

Today’s fishing reels have become very sophisticated and sleek.  They normally range from $40 to $100, although top end reels can go higher. 

If the guy has a favorite team for whom he roots, one can pick up online autographed pictures of teams or members of a team.  A signed Joe Montana picture might go for $100 on up, but prices vary, depending on the athlete and team.  They are treasured gifts, suitable for framing, as are framed family pictures with children and grandchildren.

Every man takes pride in his grill, whether it is a charcoal or gas model.  If he receives one for the holidays, he will be grilling or barbecuing in howling winter weather, wearing his winter coat, enjoying himself to the nth or 25F degree.  Prices start at $150 but range quite a bit.

If he already has a well kept grill, new grilling utensils will have the same effect.

A good set of carving knives also makes for a manly gift for those who take pride in slicing that turkey and other meats just right.  Many sets include paring knives, choppers, carving and steak knives.

The shopper could buy him something to cook on his grill or in the kitchen.  A standing rib roast, pork or beef tenderloin or a New York Strip steak is always welcome.

Other purchases are also appreciated and do not require much wrapping.  Tickets to a concert of a favorite band are well received.  Movie passes make men feel less guilty in getting the large popcorn when the movie is already paid for. 

A gift card to a car wash is another treat for men who enjoy having their cars look good but have trouble washing their cars during inclement winter weather.

Electronic gear is always exciting as the industry is constantly introducing new products and apps.  Anything from new cell phones and iPads capture the imagination of almost everyone.  Ear buds would make a good gift, with fidelity ranging quite a bit, depending upon the price. 

Sometimes, the unusual, out of the blue, gift can be perfect.

My mother figured out one year what to get my father to surprise him completely.  He had admired something in a military museum. She found it in a catalog and bought one for him.  It had originally cost the US Government $7,000, but my mother spent just $50.

My father was thrilled and displayed it on our living room coffee table for years.  My mother gave my father a Norden Bombsight for Christmas.

It had been crucial to the U.S. Army Air Forces’ successful World War II daylight bombing campaign. It improved American bombing accuracy above all other nations.  It gave my mother the satisfaction of hitting a bull’s eye in giving her husband, the man who thought he had everything he ever wanted, the perfect gift. 

Now, it is up to us to do the same