No guesswork and no junk. This is the real-world shooting gift guide built from gear I own, trust, or wish I had. If it is here, it works.
Why This Gift Guide Won’t Miss
As a lifetime gun guy, I am extremely difficult to buy gifts for, and a lot of you reading this are the same way. When someone asks what I want for Christmas, I usually say nothing because the chances of them getting it right are close to zero. If it is not exactly right, it becomes junk that I have to store or pretend to be excited about.
So instead of letting people guess, I decided to build a list of gear that I already own and love or wish I owned. It spans long-range precision, concealed carry, tactical shooting, nighttime shenanigans with thermal and night vision, suppressors, and everything else that makes shooting more capable and more enjoyable.
Some of this is personal preference, but a lot of it is simply how it is. I get asked for recommendations constantly. This guide solves that with vetted picks that flat out work.
This list has gear at a wide range of prices, so no matter who is buying, they can find something that actually makes sense. I will continue updating this guide, and I am always open to reader suggestions so we can keep building the most complete, badass list of gifts for serious shooters.
RIFLES
Savage AXIS II Precision
MSRP: $1,079
The Savage AXIS II Precision is the rifle I recommend to anyone who wants real capability without having to spend match-level money. Savage dropped their AXIS action into an MDT chassis and created a rifle that shoots far better than its price point suggests. The ergonomics are good, the rifle is easy to tune, and the accuracy potential with factory 6.5 Creedmoor is impressive. For a little over a thousand dollars, this is one of the best values in precision shooting.
Ruger Precision Rifle
MSRP: $2,149
The Ruger Precision Rifle helped kick off the modern chassis rifle craze and has stayed relevant because it simply works. The folding stock is solid, the adjustability is excellent, and the rifle responds well to upgrades. It is one of the easiest rifles to grow with, whether someone is learning long range or stepping into local PRS-style matches. The RPR sets a dependable baseline that many other rifles measure themselves against.
Seekins Precision Havak HIT Pro
MSRP: $2,400
Seekins is one of the most respected companies in the precision rifle world right now, and the HAVAK HIT Pro is a great example of why. It is a modular, competition-capable chassis rifle with excellent ergonomics and a smooth action. Bolt head and barrel swaps are a thing with this rifle. The HIT Pro offers tool-less adjustability, a folding stock, and smart design touches that make it feel like a rifle built by shooters, for shooters. It is reliable, accurate, and one of those rifles that lets a shooter grow into more advanced shooting without outgrowing their rifle.
Savage 110 Elite Precision
MSRP: $2,259 to $2,429
Savage built the 110 Elite Precision to be a turnkey competition gun. The rifle ships from the factory inside an MDT ACC chassis, which is normally something competitive shooters buy separately. The ACC system has integrated weight tuning, a rigid forend, and a very wide adjustment range. The 110 action has been around long enough to be extremely dependable, and the barrels Savage puts on these rifles are consistently accurate. For someone who wants to jump straight into precision matches without piecing a rifle together, this is a strong option.
Springfield Armory Model 2020 Heatseeker (20-inch Carbon Barrel)
MSRP: $2,355
The Heatseeker does not get enough attention, and it should. This rifle blends field rifle characteristics with competition capability. The carbon fiber barrel keeps weight manageable while still delivering impressive 6.5 Creedmoor performance. The TriggerTech trigger is excellent, and the modern chassis gives shooters the adjustability they need without unnecessary bulk. It is a sleeper rifle that performs at a very high level for the price.
Burris XTR III 3.3-18×50
MSRP: $1,239
The Burris XTR III is one of the most underrated mid-tier long-range scopes on the market. It has excellent tracking, strong glass for the money, and a feature set that covers everything a shooter needs to reach out past a thousand yards. The reticles are clean and usable, the turrets are positive, and the scope is built to take abuse. For shooters who want a dependable optic at a reasonable price, this one is hard to beat.
Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18×44 (TMR Reticle)
MSRP: $2,199
I use a lot of Leupold Mark 5 scopes, and the 3.6-18 is one of my favorites. It is compact, it is extremely durable, and the glass is excellent. The TMR reticle offers a solid blend of speed and precision. The Mark 5HD series is known for proven tracking and rugged reliability, and this magnification range is ideal for both competition and practical long-range work. It is light enough for real field use and built for serious shooters.
Nightforce NX8 2.5-20
MSRP: $2,150
The NX8 2.5-20 is one of the most versatile tactical scopes available today. The low end of 2.5 power makes close-range and dynamic shooting straightforward, while the 20x top end gives more than enough magnification for longer shots. The scope is tough, compact, and clear. Nightforce built this optic for shooters who need a rugged tool that works in the worst possible conditions, and it performs like it.
Nightforce ATACR Line
MSRP: $2,600 to $3,600, depending on model
The ATACR lineup has earned its reputation. These are some of the most durable, optically refined scopes in the world. The turrets are among the most consistent available, the glass is outstanding, and the overall build quality is what you expect when you pay for top-tier performance. If someone wants a long-range scope they can depend on for years without compromise, the ATACR line will always be in the conversation.
ZCO ZC420
MSRP: $4,020
The ZC420 is one of the best scopes in the world. Zero Compromise Optic built its reputation on optical perfection, precise turret mechanics, and incredible durability. The 4-20 configuration is ideal for both competition and field shooting, and the clarity is something you notice instantly. It is not cheap, but shooters who buy one almost always want another.
Kowa TSN-99S Spotting Scope
MSRP: $3,300 (body only)
The Kowa TSN-99 system is one of the best spotting scopes on the market. The fluorite crystal objective lens delivers exceptional contrast, clarity, and low-light performance. When spotting bullet trace or reading wind at distance, this level of glass quality makes a real difference. It is a premium optic for shooters who want the very best image quality available.
Handheld Rangefinders
SIG Sauer KILO3K
MSRP: $359.99
The KILO3K is the best budget ballistic rangefinder on the market. It is compact, fast, accurate, and integrates with the BDX system. For new shooters or anyone looking for a capable rangefinder without stepping into higher price brackets, this one is an easy recommendation.
SIG Sauer KILO10K ABS HD Gen II
MSRP: $1,949.99
The KILO10K Gen II is a powerhouse. It combines excellent glass with a serious rangefinding engine and a built-in Applied Ballistics solver. For hunters and long-range shooters, this bino brings everything together in one optic. Its ranging performance and integration features make it one of the best all-in-one solutions on the market.
Weapon-Mounted Rangefinders
(One of the hottest trends in precision shooting right now.)
Weapon-mounted rangefinders let you stay behind the rifle, get instant ranges, and automatically give you ballistic data with almost no delay. Hunters, tactical shooters, and competition shooters are adopting them fast.
SIG Sauer KILO WARP 6K
MSRP: $1,099.99
The KILO WARP 6K is SIG’s entry into the weapon-mounted LRF category. It ranges well, integrates cleanly with SIG’s ballistic systems, and mounts directly to the rifle. It offers excellent performance for the money and is a strong option for shooters getting into weapon-mounted tech. (Should start shipping in March 2026.)
Maztech X4 LRF 2K
Street Price: Approximately $1,600
The X4 LRF 2K is the more affordable of Maztech’s weapon-mounted rangefinders, but it still brings real capability. It has solid ranging performance, integration potential with Maztech’s developing ecosystem, and a form factor that mounts cleanly on a rifle. It is promising technology at a reachable price for dedicated shooters.
Vortex Impact 4000
MSRP: $2,999.99 (I found it for as low as $1400)
The Impact 4000 is Vortex’s take on a rifle-mounted fire control system. It is capable, integrates ballistic solutions, and delivers fast ranges from the shoulder. Vortex built this unit for shooters who want a fully integrated precision shooting system.
Maztech X4 LRF 15K
Street Price: Approximately $3,999 to $4,199
The X4 LRF 15K is currently one of the most capable civilian-available weapon-mounted rangefinders. It ranges extremely well, has advanced features, and shows where the future of rifle integration is headed. It is expensive, but for shooters who want the top end of this emerging category, it is a standout option.
Garmin Xero C1 Pro
Street Price: $599.99
The Garmin Xero C1 Pro is mandatory equipment for anyone who takes long-range shooting seriously. Accurate velocity data is essential, and this unit delivers it without the trouble of sky screens, weather issues, or large setups. It works in nearly any condition, is compact, and produces consistent results. It should be in every precision shooter’s kit.
Garmin Tactix 8
MSRP varies by configuration
The Tactix 8 is the watch I recommend when someone wants every tactical feature imaginable on their wrist. It is rugged, accurate, and includes mapping, navigation, fitness tracking, mission-oriented features, a flashlight, Night Vision mode, and Applied Ballistics. The battery life is excellent, and the screen is visible in all conditions. For a shooter or an outdoorsman, it is the kind of tool you end up relying on daily.
Ckye-Pod (All Variants)
MSRP varies
The Ckye-Pod is the industry standard among precision rifle competitors. It offers a huge range of leg positions, extreme adjustability, and rock-solid stability under recoil. Shooters love it because it adapts to nearly any terrain or barricade. If someone is serious about long-range precision, this is the bipod they eventually end up with.
Ckye-Pod Hybrid
MSRP varies
The Hybrid version keeps the adjustability of the original Ckye-Pod but offers a lighter design that caters to field shooters and hunters. It still locks up tight and provides excellent stability, making it a great option for those who want high performance without extra weight.
Hatch Outwest Bipod
Street price varies
Hatch Outwest builds strong, functional bipods that work well for shooters who want a durable field option. They provide stable shooting platforms without adding unnecessary complexity. This is a solid choice for anyone who wants a dependable bipod for hunting or general long-range use.
Tricer Bipod
MSRP varies
Tricer bipods are extremely lightweight and designed for mountain hunters or anyone counting ounces. They provide surprising stability given the weight savings. For shooters who prioritize packability but still want performance, Tricer bipods are impressive.
MDT Send-iT Electronic Level
MSRP: $206
The MDT Send-iT is a smart level that helps shooters avoid rifle cant without lifting their head off the scope. It uses horizontal LEDs to give clear, fast feedback. Once you use one, traditional bubble levels feel primitive. It is a solid upgrade for long range shooters.
MSRP varies
Shooters Global Level
The Shooters Global digital level is another excellent option for precision shooting. It provides clear cant information and works well in timed stages. It is accurate, durable, and popular among competitive shooters who want consistent rifle alignment.
RRS Tripods (Really Right Stuff)
MSRP varies
RRS builds the best tripods in the industry for shooting. They are incredibly strong, stable, and engineered with precision. Many of the top competitive shooters and long range hunters rely on RRS tripods for glassing and for rifle support. If you want the best, this is it.
Vortex Tripods
MSRP varies
Vortex tripods offer excellent value. They are lightweight, durable, and strong enough to support spotting scopes or rifles. They are a good middle-ground option for shooters who want solid performance without paying RRS prices.
Two Vets Tripods
MSRP varies
Two Vets tripods are a favorite among precision shooters. They provide excellent stability and smart feature sets while keeping the price more accessible than some of the premium brands. They take recoil well and work reliably in field conditions.
Wheeler Engineering Scope Mount Leveling Kit
Street Price: Around $30
Wheeler’s leveling kit is simple and effective. Proper scope leveling matters, especially for long range shooting, and this kit makes the job fast and consistent. It is inexpensive and works exactly as intended.
Wheeler FAT Wrench Torque Driver
MSRP: $74.99
The FAT Wrench is a must-have tool for mounting optics and accessories. Correct torque prevents overtightening and protects your gear. The FAT Wrench has become the standard for home builders and shooters who maintain their own rifles.
Fix It Sticks (Torque Limiters)
MSRP varies
Fix It Sticks torque limiters are premium tools for shooters who want the best possible field-maintenance gear. These limiters are extremely reliable, and the modular system packs down small for travel. They are ideal for competitions, hunting trips, or range days.
Streamlight TLR-1
MSRP: $194.58
The Streamlight TLR-1 is one of the most proven full-size handgun lights on the market. It delivers strong output, excellent reliability, and a durable housing at a reasonable price. For duty-sized guns, it is an easy recommendation.
Streamlight TLR-7
MSRP: $245.84
The TLR-7 is my preferred compact light for concealed carry pistols. It is small, bright, and dependable. The controls are intuitive, and the size keeps the gun easy to conceal while still giving you real illumination capability.
SIG Sauer Rifle Weapon Light (Budget Pick)
MSRP varies
SIG makes a surprisingly good budget-friendly rifle light. It does not cost as much as some premium systems but still offers good output and reliability. It is a smart choice for shooters looking for performance without paying top-tier prices.
Modlite (Premium Rifle Light)
MSRP varies
Modlite makes some of the best rifle lights available today. They offer high output, good candela, and top-tier durability. These lights are designed for shooters who rely on their equipment in demanding environments. If someone wants the best performance and is willing to pay for it, Modlite delivers.
SIG Handheld Flashlight
MSRP varies
SIG’s handheld lights offer strong performance and dependable construction at a reasonable price. They are good general-purpose lights for carry, vehicle use, or general defensive applications.
Armytek Headlamp
MSRP varies
Armytek makes durable, bright, and reliable headlamps that work well for nighttime shooting, hunting, or general outdoor use. They have excellent battery life and a rugged housing. This is one of those inexpensive tools that ends up being used constantly.
Safariland Schema IWB Holster
MSRP varies by model
Safariland’s Schema IWB holster is a minimalist design that provides solid retention and comfort. It is slim, reliable, and built with the same quality Safariland is known for. It is a great option for shooters who want a low-profile concealed carry rig.
Kore Essentials Gun Belt
MSRP: Around $59.95
Kore Essentials makes one of the most adjustable and comfortable EDC belts available. The ratcheting system allows quick sizing changes, which matters when carrying concealed. It is practical and dependable.
Daltech Force Distressed Steel Core American Bison Belt
Street Price: Around $80
This belt is tough, stylish, and extremely functional for concealed carry. The steel core gives rigidity, and the bison leather holds up well to daily use. It is an excellent leather belt option for CCW. It’s my favorite belt. It doesn’t need to be tight to hold a full size gun.
Eberlestock Clothing (Bruneau Hoodie)
MSRP varies
Eberlestock makes solid clothing that blends comfort and utility. The Bruneau Hoodie is a favorite due to its breathability and versatility. It works well for training, range days, and outdoor use.
Fjallraven Keb Trouser
MSRP: $235
The Keb Trouser is one of the most durable and comfortable outdoor pants available. The stretch panels, ventilation options, and rugged construction make them excellent for range training, field use, or hiking. They last a long time and move well with the shooter.
Archon Type B
MSRP: Around $899
The Archon Type B has a very low bore axis and a unique recoil system that allows for extremely flat shooting. It has strong ergonomics, excellent accuracy, and a high-quality trigger. It is different from most polymer pistols in a good way. Serious shooters appreciate how controllable it is.
CZ Shadow 2 Carry
MSRP: $1,299
The Shadow 2 Carry is one of the smoothest and most shootable carry pistols available. It has great recoil control, a fantastic trigger, and CZ’s proven ergonomics. For shooters who want maximum controllability in a defensive-sized handgun, this one is outstanding.
FN Reflex
MSRP: $599
The FN Reflex is one of the most overlooked concealed carry pistols in the industry. It has a good trigger, is optics-ready, and offers excellent reliability. It is slim, comfortable to carry, and provides more performance than many guns in its class.
SIG Sauer P365 XL
MSRP: $679
The P365 XL is one of my regular carry pistols. It is accurate, reliable, and easy to conceal. The longer slide and grip make it easier to shoot well than the smaller P365 variants. Adding a Wilson Combat grip module transforms this pistol into something special.
Rost Martin RM1C
MSRP: Under $400
The RM1C is one of the most overlooked pistols in its price range. It comes optics-ready, has steel sights, ambidextrous controls, and surprisingly good grip texture. For under four hundred dollars, it offers an impressive amount of value.
Bersa M2XI 2011
MSRP: $999
The Bersa M2XI is one of the best budget 2011-style pistols available. It offers solid performance, good ergonomics, and the advantages of the double-stack 1911 platform at a very approachable price.
Springfield Armory Prodigy
MSRP: Starting around $1,499
The Prodigy is Springfield’s entry into the 2011 world. These pistols are accurate, well-built, and offer excellent value. The optics-ready system works well, and the platform is a great introduction to double-stack 1911 performance.
Kimber 2K11
MSRP varies
Kimber’s 2K11 line is an often-overlooked entry in the 2011 category. These pistols offer good trigger feel, high-quality construction, and the benefits of a double-stack design. They are a strong option for shooters who want something different from the mainstream 2011 choices.
SIG Sauer GTO P211
MSRP varies
SIG’s P211 takes the 2011 concept and gives it a modern SIG treatment. It has good ergonomics, smooth operation, and a refined feel. It is a solid entry for shooters who want a SIG-branded double-stack 1911 platform.
Staccato XC
MSRP: $4,399
The Staccato XC is at the top of the production 2011 market. It offers outstanding shootability with extremely flat recoil, a light and crisp trigger, and premium construction. It bridges the gap between carry reliability and competition-level performance. Shooters who want the best appreciate what this pistol delivers.
Armasight PVS-14 (Gen 3 Pinnacle)
MSRP varies by tube
The PVS-14 is the standard night vision monocular that every serious shooter should have. It is compact, lightweight, and durable. It allows for nighttime navigation, observation, and even passive aiming. A PVS-14 is often the first piece of night vision gear professionals and prepared civilians buy because of its utility and reliability.
Holosun IRIS GR3 and GR2 (IR Lasers)
MSRP varies
Holosun’s IRIS series lasers offer incredible value. The GR3 is the top pick, offering strong performance at a much lower price than the big military brands. The GR2 is the budget option that still works well for nighttime shooting. There are better lasers on the market, but not at these prices, and Holosun brings a proven track record and strong customer support.
InfiRay Outdoor RICO MICRO V2 640
MSRP varies
The RICO MICRO V2 640 is one of the most versatile thermals on the market. It can be helmet mounted, used as a handheld scanner, run as a dedicated weapon sight, or used as a clip-on. This flexibility makes it extremely valuable for home defense, night hunting, and general nighttime exploration. It is lightweight, has excellent image quality, and performs well in a wide range of conditions.
Armasight Operator 640 Thermal Clip-On
MSRP varies
Armasight’s Operator 640 is a strong thermal clip-on that gives excellent clarity, good refresh rates, and dependable performance. It attaches easily, keeps zero well, and works across a wide range of riflescopes. For nighttime shooting or hog hunting, it is a versatile and capable option backed by a company with a long history in night vision and thermal devices.
NOXPIX ACE 60R Thermal
MSRP $6999
I own the ACE 60R and love it. The image quality (1280) is excellent, the controls are intuitive, and the size makes it practical for both handheld and rifle-mounted use. It is a powerful, high-resolution thermal that delivers real-world performance and impressive clarity.
SIG Sauer Echo CV25 Thermal Clip-On
MSRP: $4499.99
SIG’s CV25 clip-on provides strong performance at a competitive price. It offers a solid warranty, quick-attach mounting, and dependable thermal imaging. It is a very accessible option for shooters who want a clip-on thermal without spending top-tier money.
MTM Case-Gard Universal Loading Tray
MSRP: $14.99
This tray works with almost any caliber and makes organizing ammo during the reloading process easier and more efficient. It is inexpensive, durable, and something every reloader will use constantly.
Hornady OAL Gauge (Straight)
MSRP: $47.99
The Hornady OAL gauge is one of the most important tools for handloaders who want precise seating depth control. It helps measure the exact distance to the lands for a given bullet. Consistent seating depth equals consistent accuracy, and this tool makes that possible.
Rocky Mountain Reloading (Bulk 9mm Bullets)
Street price varies by bullet type
Rocky Mountain Reloading produces some of the most accurate bulk 9mm bullets I have ever shot. They are consistent, clean, and affordable. For high-volume shooters and reloaders, RMR is a go-to source for dependable projectiles.
Thunder Beast Arms Magnus
MSRP varies
The Magnus is one of the quietest and most capable precision rifle suppressors ever built. Thunder Beast has a reputation for creating cans that offer incredible suppression with minimal point of impact shift. For long range shooters and hunters who want maximum performance, the Magnus is one of the top options available.
SilencerCo Scythe-Ti
MSRP: $1,174
The Scythe-Ti is one of my favorite suppressors. It is extremely lightweight due to its titanium construction, yet still provides excellent suppression. It is ideal for hunters who want minimal weight but maximum quiet. SilencerCo’s mounting systems are solid and user friendly.
Silencer Central Banish (.410 and Shotgun Suppressor)
MSRP varies
Silencer Central’s Banish series includes one of the few effective shotgun suppressors available. It reduces recoil and noise significantly and is built with solid materials. For shooters who want a suppressed shotgun experience, this is one of the best options.
AR Gold Trigger
MSRP: $279.95
The AR Gold trigger is one of the best single-stage triggers available. It has a clean break, short reset, and a unique design that makes it extremely fast. It is used by top competitors and shooters who demand a premium trigger feel in their AR platforms. It’s one of the first upgrades I make to all my AR’s
Magpul PMAGs
MSRP varies by model
Magpul PMAGs are the standard for polymer AR magazines. They are durable, reliable, and affordable. These mags have earned their reputation through years of hard use by military, law enforcement, and civilian shooters.
Lancer Magazines (Steel Feed Lips)
MSRP varies
Lancer’s hybrid magazines combine polymer bodies with steel feed lips. This gives shooters durability, strength, and smooth feeding. They are a great option when you want something even stronger than a PMAG.
Browning BAR Mark 4 DBM
MSRP varies
The Browning BAR is a classic semiautomatic rifle. It is smooth, accurate, and beautifully made. The Mark 4 DBM variant adds a detachable box magazine for quicker reloads. This rifle is simply cool, and it is one of those guns people recognize instantly.
Chiappa Rhino (9mm Variant)
MSRP varies
The Rhino is one of the most unique revolvers ever built. Its barrel is aligned with the bottom of the cylinder, which reduces muzzle flip and recoil. It has a futuristic look and a distinct shooting feel. The 9mm version is especially fun due to low ammo cost and high shootability.
Mossberg 990 Aftershock
MSRP varies
The Mossberg Aftershock is a ridiculous, over-the-top semi-auto shotgun that is meant to be fun and that technically isn’t a shotgun. Mossberg built something wild, and it delivers exactly what it promises.
MTM ACDC50 Ammo Crate (Divided)
MSRP: $34.99
The ACDC50 is a practical, durable ammo crate with divided compartments. It keeps gear organized and easy to transport. Anyone with ammo or range gear can use one of these.
SecureIt Agile Ultralight Model 52 Pro
MSRP: $799
The Agile 52 Pro is a light, modular gun storage cabinet that is easy for anyone to install or relocate. It provides secure storage without the weight of a traditional safe. For someone who moves often or wants a lighter security solution, it is a smart pick.
Gift Guide Snapshot
| Model | Savage AXIS II Precision |
|---|---|
| Caliber | N/A |
| Barrel Length | N/A |
| Overall Length | N/A |
| Weight | N/A |
| Capacity | N/A |
| MSRP | $1,079 |
This guide is a living document of gear that I either own, trust, or would personally buy. It covers a wide spread of price points, so anyone buying gifts for a gun person has real options instead of guessing. I will continue adding new products as I test them and hear feedback from readers. It’s not a comprehensive list, so please don’t be offended if I missed something.
If you want the most capable, practical, and downright cool equipment available in the shooting world, this is the list I would hand to any friend who asks what they should buy.
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