Hunting is a popular activity that many people enjoy. If you’re looking for the perfect gift for a hunter, you want to ensure that it is practical, useful, and of high quality.
My goal in this article is to give you a lot of ideas that are fairly safe, and should be appreciated best gift ideas no matter what kind of hunting the person that you’re buying for does.
In this article, we will review the best hunting gifts for men to help you find the perfect gift for your hunting enthusiast.
Product Reviews
IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
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Best Budget Gift |
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Best for Wet-Weather Hunters |
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Best Premium Gift for Short Range Hunters |
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Best Premium Gift for Long Range Hunters |
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Most Useful |
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Best for Practicing Shot Placement |
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Best for Practicing Long Range |
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Best for Budget Target practice |
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Best for Cold Weather Hunters |
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Best for Forest Hunters |
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1. Best Budget Gift – Hand Warmers
Hand warmers are a simple, yet essential accessory for hunters braving snowy weather conditions.
They come in various shapes and sizes, such as disposable packets or rechargeable battery-operated devices.
Hand warmers work by providing heat to the hands to keep them warm and toasty during hunting activities.
Most hand warmers should last for around 10 hours, but you can find ones that will last a lot longer if you are willing to spend a little bit more money.
They’re very small, easy to fit into a tiny space in a backpack, and can make a big difference in how comfortable the hunting trip is. Cold hands and feet can make being outside a lot less enjoyable.
Pros
- Inexpensive and practical gift option
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Great for hunters who frequently hunt in cold weather conditions
Cons
- Disposable hand warmers need to be replaced frequently
- Battery-operated hand warmers require charging
- Not useful for hunters in warm weather conditions
Summary
Hand warmers are a fantastic hunting gift option for hunters who hunt in cold weather conditions like deer hunting. They are affordable, lightweight, and easy to carry, making them an excellent addition to any hunting gear.
However, disposable hand warmers need to be replaced frequently, and battery-operated hand warmers require charging, making them less convenient for some hunters.
2. Best for Wet-Weather Hunters – Waterproof Boots
Waterproof hunting boots are a must-have for hunters who hunt in wet and muddy conditions. These boots are specially designed to keep feet dry and warm, even in the wettest of conditions.
They come in different styles, such as ankle boots or knee-high boots, and are made from durable materials that provide excellent traction on slippery surfaces.
In my experience, you need to go with boots that are rubber on the outside if you want actual waterproofness.
I’ve bought a lot of supposedly waterproof boots in my day, and they all let water in through the lace area like every other shoe on the planet. If you buy boots with laces, don’t expect them to be truly waterproof.
Pros
- Practical and thoughtful gift for hunters who hunt in wet and muddy conditions
- Provides excellent traction on slippery surfaces
- Keeps feet dry and warm, even in the wettest of conditions
Cons
- Can be expensive
- May not be necessary for deer hunters who hunt in dry weather
- Preference plays a role here
Summary
Every deer hunter needs boots of some kind. Even if your hunter doesn’t need solid rubber boots, he probably could use a different type of boots.
The solid rubber like the ones pictured above are going to be good for wet-weather hunting, but if you’re planning on hoofing it for 10 miles up and down a canyon, you’ll want a boot that’s a little more form-fitting.
3. Best Premium Gift for Short Range Hunters – Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Riflescope
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm riflescope is a high-quality scope that is perfect for short-range hunting. It features a fast-focus eyepiece, illuminated reticle, and multi-coated lenses.
When I say “short-range” hunting, I mean anything within 200 yards. The flexibility of being able to open up to a true 1x while also crunching down all the way to 8x is phenomenal.
8x should be enough magnification to get you comfortably out to 200 yards, unless you’re hunting very small game from that range.
Vortex scopes come with a lifetime warranty, and the Strike Eagle comes with a BDC reticle that will allow you to quickly (and roughly) calculate your holdover if you know how far away your target is.
Pros
- Highly versatile
- Wide field of view
- Great for many hunting scenarios
Cons
- A very expensive gift
- He may already have a scope that he loves
Summary
If you are wanting to spend a lot of money on your hunter, a high quality optic like this one is a good way to go.
Even if this particularly scope doesn’t seem like the right fit, you can reach out to deer hunters who may be able to give you more insight into which scope they would recommend.
4. Best Premium Gift for Long Range Hunters – Vortex Diamondback 6-24x50mm Riflescope
The Vortex Diamondback 6-24x50mm riflescope is a high-quality scope that is perfect for long-range hunting.
It features a dead-hold BDC reticle, multi-coated lenses, and a side-focus knob.
Most hunters would consider an optic of some kind to be an essential piece of gear for hunting, and if you’re shooting out past 200 yards, having a long-range scope is important.
The reasons why I’m recommending this particular scope are as follows: Vortex is a well-known, immensely popular brand that delivers fantastic riflescopes at reasonable prices.
They have a lifetime warranty, and the Diamondback has a 50mm objective with an FFP reticle (good for when you might be shooting at widely disparate ranges). You also get parallax adjustment.
Pros
- Essential tool for long-range hunting
- 50mm objective lens
- Adjustable parallax
- MOA or MRAD reticle
Cons
- Just as expensive as the other scope
- He may already have an optic he is fine with
- Need to also buy the right size mounting rings that are also compatible with his rifle
Summary
The Vortex Diamondback 6-24x50mm riflescope is a premium hunting gift for long-range hunters. It is high-quality, versatile, and has a clear view.
5. Most Useful – Hunting Ammunition
Every hunter needs ammo. They need it not only for the days of hunting season, but also anytime they need to zero a scope or fill out a DOPE card because they need to use the exact load they’ll be using on the hunt.
As long as you can find out what his round of choice for hunting is, you can pick him up a box of the same round to save him a bit of money and trouble.
A 20-round box of hunting-grade ammo could be anywhere from $35-$80, so the cost can add up fairly quickly if they are a serious hunter.
Getting them a box can show that you’re thoughtful enough to figure out what ammo they need and get them through more time at the range or hunting.
Pros
- As long as you get the right box, he will definitely use it
- Even if you get the wrong box, he will almost definitely use it
- He can probably exchange it if it’s not quite the right ammo
Cons
- Requires a little investigation
- Can be expensive for a consumable
Summary
Ammo is sorted first by caliber, then by projectile. A common mistake hunting buddies make is buying rounds that are the right caliber but the wrong projectile.
Take a picture of the box of ammo that he uses for hunting (not target practice; target ammo is cheaper), then look for the exact same box at the sporting goods store.
Show the guy at the counter the picture if you can’t find it.
Hunting Ammunition
The price of Hunting Ammunition varies, so check the latest price at
6. Best for Practicing Shot Placement – Animal Targets
Animal targets give the shooter the ability to practice aiming for the correct spots on the animal.
You should be able to find targets of the exact animal that your hunter hunts, and it will allow him to get a feel for where he needs to aim to get where he wants.
Many (but not all) of these targets are to-scale, so he should be able to set them up at a closer distance to imitate the experience of hunting the animal from further away.
Even if he’s a casual hunter and not interested in that much training on the range, he will still enjoy shooting at something other than a circle with lines through it.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Guaranteed to be used/enjoyed
- Could be valuable training tool
Cons
- Targets are never full-size
- Some of them aren’t even to scale
- May be hard to find one for less popular game
Summary
Every shooter needs targets to practice against, and it can get dull using the same old paper circles over and over.
With a target like this, he can get practice that is a little closer to real life, and have more fun doing it.
7. Best for Practicing Long Range – Steel Gong Targets
One of the biggest difficulties in practicing long-range shooting is that it can be very hard to tell whether you hit the target, and where on the target you hit it.
Spotting scopes can be one solution to this, but the amount of magnification you need to see a bullet hole from 300, 400, 500+ yards away is pretty insane.
A highly practical solution to this is steel gong targets. These targets make a fairly loud ping when you hit them, which is audible from the firing line.
This lets you know whether you hit the target, and the movement can tell you which target you hit.
Pros
- Very useful
- Fun for long ranges
- Not as expensive as riflescopes
Cons
- More expensive than other gift options
- Requires somewhere to shoot long range
Summary
These are great tools for training, especially for long range shots, but keep in mind that the targets are only as good as the location you are able to set them up in.
If your hunter has nowhere they can practice shooting at long ranges with these targets, they won’t be able to use them.
8. Best for Budget Target practice – Reactive Splatter Targets
Reactive splatter targets are a fun and affordable way for hunters to practice their aim. These targets are made of a special material that produces a bright, visible reaction when it is struck by a bullet.
This reaction makes it easy for hunters to see exactly where they hit the target, which can help them improve their accuracy over time.
Most reactive targets also come with stickers to place over the holes so that you can re-use the target without having to keep track of which holes were shot at which time.
Pros
- Affordable option for target practice
- Provides instant feedback on shot placement
- Can be used indoors or outdoors
- Different sizes and shapes available
Cons
- Targets may need to be replaced after multiple uses
- May not work well in low-light conditions
- Some targets may be too small for long-range shooting
Summary
Reactive splatter targets are a great option for hunters who want an affordable way to practice their shooting skills.
These targets provide instant, obvious feedback on shot placement. They are available in a range of sizes and shapes, and can be used indoors or outdoors.
That said, most are black and may not work well in low light conditions.
9. Best for Cold Weather Hunters – Portable Propane Heater
Hunting in cold weather can be uncomfortable, but a portable propane heater can make a huge difference.
These heaters are easy to use and can quickly warm up a small hunting blind or shelter. They are also lightweight and portable, making them easy to transport from one hunting location to another.
You can get them in various sizes, so depending on the style of hunting you’re purchasing it for you can get a larger or smaller one.
Just remember, these are open flames fed by pressurized propane, so they can be dangerous if your hunter does something stupid.
Pros
- Provides warmth in cold weather
- Easy to use and transport
- Can be used in small hunting blinds or shelters
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- Can be dangerous if not used properly
- Requires propane tanks, which can be expensive
- Not a substitute for other weather-appropriate preparation
Summary
A portable propane heater is a great gift for hunters who like to hunt in cold weather. These heaters provide warmth and are easy to use and transport.
They can be used in small hunting blinds or shelters, and are lightweight and portable.
However, hunters should be aware that propane heaters can be dangerous if not used properly.
10. Best Gift for Forest Hunters – Hunting Blind
Hunting blinds are a great way for hunters to stay hidden from their prey while still being able to see and shoot.
They are usually made of durable, waterproof material and come in a range of sizes and styles. Some hunting blinds are designed to be set up in trees, while others are ground blinds that can be set up on the forest floor.
They are typically smaller than tents, and may not be big enough for someone to lay down fully in them.
Pros
- Provides a concealed location for hunting
- Keeps hunters hidden from prey
- Durable and waterproof
- Comes in a range of sizes and styles
Cons
- May require extra setup time
- May not be as mobile as other hunting options
- May not be as effective in open hunting areas
Summary
Hunting blinds are a great gift for forest hunters to help them stay hidden from their prey while still being able to see and shoot.
They are durable, waterproof, and come in a range of sizes and styles. However, they may require extra setup time and may not be as mobile as other hunting options.
They may also not be as effective in areas without dense foliage.
11. Foot Warmers
Foot warmers are the best gifts for hunters who frequently hunt in cold weather conditions. These are small devices that can be worn inside boots or shoes, and provide warmth to keep hunters’ feet comfortable in even the coldest conditions.
Foot warmers are available in a variety of styles, including heated insoles and rechargeable models.
Single-use foot warmers are essentially the same as hand warmers, but shaped to accommodate your foot while it’s in a tight-fitting boot.
Pros
- Provides warmth to keep feet comfortable in cold weather
- Available in a variety of styles and models
- Easy to use and transport
- Can be used for various outdoor activities
Cons
- May not last as long as the box says
- Batteries may need to be replaced frequently on rechargeable versions
- May not fit well in all types of footwear
Summary
Foot warmers are another best gifts for hunters who hunt in cold weather conditions.
These devices provide warmth to keep hunters’ feet comfortable in even the coldest conditions, and are available in a variety of styles. They are easy to use and transport, and can be used for a variety of outdoor activities.
12. Red Dot
Much like the two scopes higher up on this list, a red dot is an optic that can be used in some hunting scenarios.
It’s not as common, which is why it’s further down on this list, but even if your hunter can’t use it for hunting he can probably use it on one of his other rifles.
Red dots are great for fast-moving targets that are fairly close (within 100 yards).
This makes them a good fit for varmint hunting and pest control. Outside of hunting, they are also good for home defense.
Pros
- Good for varmint hunting
- Also useful for other shooting
- Fast target acquisition
Cons
- Not great for hunting past 100 yards
- Most require picatinny rail for mounting
Summary
A red dot is a good gift for gun enthusiasts generally, and many hunters can find a use for it.
That said, for someone who really just likes big game hunting and shoots from longer than 100 yards, they may not be very interested in a red dot.
13. Concealed Sidearm Holster
A concealed sidearm holster is a holster that allows hunters to carry a sidearm without it being noticeable.
These types of holsters are designed to keep the firearm hidden and secure while still being easily accessible when needed.
This can be useful while hunting, but it can also be used at many other times provided the hunter has a concealed carry permit.
Pros
- Keeps sidearm hidden and secure
- Easily accessible when needed
- Can be worn discreetly under hunting clothing
- Provides added safety during hunting trips
Cons
- May not be comfortable for extended periods of time
- Not suitable for larger sidearms
- Can be difficult to draw sidearm quickly in some situations
Summary
A concealed sidearm holster keeps the firearm hidden and secure while still being easily accessible when needed.
However, it may not be comfortable for long periods of time, and it may not be suitable for larger sidearms. In addition, it may not be as practical in hunting scenarios as other options.
14. Leather OWB Holster
A leather OWB (Outside the Waistband) holster is another convenient way to carry a sidearm.
Leather makes for a great gift because it has a premium look to it and you can get a leather holster that is custom-cut for the handgun that will be placed into it.
Most hunters, if they take a sidearm, they wear it OWB for both comfort and quickness of drawing.
Pros
- Keeps sidearm secure
- Easily accessible when needed
- Can be worn comfortably for quality time
- Provides added safety during hunting trips
Cons
- May not be suitable for larger sidearms
- Not as discreet as a concealed sidearm holster
Summary
Leather is generally weatherproof and only gets better as it gets older.
A fancy leather holster is something that most hunters have a hard time justifying for themselves but would love to receive.
You can get a universal(ish) one like the holster pictured above, or you can get one that is custom-molded to your hunter’s handgun.
Buying Guide
Verify What the Hunter Uses to Hunt
When it comes to firearm accessories and hunting gear, compatibility is not guaranteed. There are different platforms, mounting systems, and ecosystems.
Whatever the gift ideas you’re considering, get creative about making sure that it is 100% compatible with what he already uses.
One thing to watch out for if buying ammo, make sure the caliber is exact; .300 is not the same as .308. Make sure the projectile is the same.
If you’re not sure about compatibility, ask one of the workers at the sporting goods store. This will help to buy best gifts.
Keep the Hunting Gift Receipt
Don’t be offended if your hunter wants to exchange your gift for a similar but more compatible option. This can take a lot of pressure off you to get the perfect gift ideas.
Hunters are Very Particular
Hunters tend to be hyper-specific about the gear they choose, and it’s not always logical.
A lot of it is brand loyalty and personal preference, and unless you are a frequent hunting companion of theirs, you probably aren’t aware of many of these idiosyncrasies.
Don’t let this scare you away from getting them a hunting gift, though. Many of these hunting gifts have uses outside of hunting.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask
There are some hunters who will be touched when they receive a surprise gift that is exactly what they wanted, but most won’t feel any less appreciative if they are consulted beforehand to ensure that the correct gift is purchased. You can also give hunting gift bug out bags because the importance of the best bug out bags as a hunting gift lies in their essential role in ensuring preparedness, survival, and convenience during hunting expeditions and unforeseen situations.
FAQs
Comfort. If they are uncomfortable, they won’t enjoy the hunt nearly as much, and all the other important elements (patience, accuracy, discipline) will suffer if they aren’t basically comfortable.
They will typically look for basic functionality and durability. Anything that makes the impossible possible or the difficult easier will be something they’ll appreciate very much.
Conclusion
Buying a gift for a hunter doesn’t have to be enormously complicated. You can choose from any of the options on this hunting gifts list, or keep searching for what you think your hunter might appreciate.
Most hunters enjoy the outdoors in general, so many camping or shooting accessories could be good choices even if they aren’t that useful for hunting specifically.
No matter what you get, your hunter will appreciate that you went out of your way to find something that can help them pursue their hobby more effectively or comfortably.