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Dad Gear! Wingmen’s Top Picks For Father’s Day
By Todd Helms
A buddy’s wife called me a few years back asking for advice on a Father’s Day gift for him. I answered simply, “He would love a new gun.”
Here’s the deal… Dad’s aren’t tough to buy for, gear, guns, ammo, calls, decoys, a preferred beverage… a gift from any of these categories is guaranteed to make a Dad smile. But, those are pretty broad categories and being a Dad myself I figured I’d take a few minutes and make a little Dad Gear wishlist for those of you looking for something specific this Father’s Day.
Chene Gear – Scout Boot
These handy little mid-height rubber boots are all the rage right now and if Dad doesn’t own a pair already you should buy him a pair of these. For working dogs on dewy, early mornings, soggy, early goose hunts or just a quick rip to store, these slip on boots fit the bill nicely.
Savage – Renegauge Field
I’ve been shooting a Renegauge for three full seasons now and have been blown away by the rugged reliability. The Renegauge just flat works and the best part is that with its fully adjustable stock they can be custom fitted for virtually any shooter. I’ve abused mine from northern Alberta goose hunts and high volume spring snow goose shoots to sub-zero duck hunts and they’ve done nothing but go bang and fold birds.
Federal Premium – Top Gun
If there’s one thing Dad can’t have enough of it’s ammunition and Federal Premium makes the very best! Seeing that it’s summer, and Dad should be practicing up for next season, a case of Federal Top Gun target loads would be a perfect gift. Federal has worked diligently to mitigate the recent ammo shortage and Top Gun loads can be found just about anywhere that sells ammunition. My recommendation would be #8s for summer practice sessions.
Leupold – Performance Eyewear
Don’t call these sunglasses, they’re way more than just a pair of shades. With high-end performance features and a style/color to match any Dad’s taste, Leupold Performance Eyewear are the best I’ve ever worn. Clear, bright lenses and comfortable fit make these a no-brainer gift, the best part is every style Leupold offers is currently on sale! My top pick is the Switchback series with matte black frame and Emerald Mirror lenses.
Hi Mountain Seasonings – Rub 3-Pack
I don’t know many Dads who don’t like to grill… High Mountain Seasonings line of rubs will bring a smile to your Dad’s face as he starts to imagine a tasty meal hot off the grate. High Mountain makes deciding which rubs to buy especially simple with their Rub 3-Packs. My go to is Rub 3-Pack #1, it contains Steak Rub, Rib Rub, and Poultry Rub and they’re all dynamite!
Kryptek – Tartaros Hoodie
The Tartaros Hoodie in Flyway has been a go to layering piece in my waterfowl hunting clothing for the last two seasons. Kryptek’s Flyway waterfowl pattern absolutely disappears in any dead vegetation environment like marshes or crop fields. The Tartaros Hoodie has kept me warm and comfortable across a wide range of hunting conditions and it looks cool to boot! No Dad has enough hoodies and the Kryptek Tartaros Hoodie is a perfect fit.
onX Maps – Premium Membership
It’s highly likely that your Dad already has an onX Hunt Premium Membership and uses the onX Hunt App on his mobile device religiously, but renewing his membership would be a cool move this Father’s Day. If he doesn’t have an onX Hunt Premium Membership then he needs one. The App is simple to use so teaching older or tech averse Dads how to navigate the platform is a breeze and will help him with game time hunting decisions next fall. I honestly can’t imagine hunting without onX Hunt as I remember the dark ages before its existence and don’t want to ever go back.
Other Ideas. . .
Just in case you’re still undecided, here are a few more ideas for Dad this Father’s Day.
- Tanglefree Decoys or Panel Blind
- Last Flight Calls Duck or Goose Call
- Public Land Tees Shirt or Swag
- Platte Basin Outdoors Guided Goose Hunt
- Mountain View Mallards Guided Duck Hunt
- Ducks Unlimited Membership
- Pheasants Forever Membership
- Dallas Safari Club Membership
