Halloween and Veterans Day are behind us with Turkey Day just around the corner. With this comes Christmas music entirely too early and Hallmark holiday movies. It also means the queries from family are soon to begin: “What do you want for Christmas?” An easy way to combat this is with a set of public Amazon wishlists for each member of your family. If you are searching for items other than books to put on your list–or looking for practical gifts for the tactical leader in your life– here is your guide.
Parachute Hammock
For all you light-fighters out there who love the hard-ground and back-pain, scroll on by; this is not for you. Just kidding, even you will love it! I am a late adopter of the parachute hammock (which will fit inside your Stryker), but after one time using one offered by my NCO my life was changed. There are a lot of parachute hammocks out there. I am sure you can find a higher-end brand name and spend more money if you are so inclined. But I have found that this one from Legit Camping does the trick–and it comes in OD green. And here are some outstanding accessories for it:
Jetboil Flash Camping Stove
The field doesn’t have to suck–and that starts with a hot cup of coffee and shaving with warm-water. This Jetboil, or its slightly smaller Jetboil Zip, is a proven tool for making even the coldest morning in Atropia more bearable. And don’t forget your fuel and Mountain House–a tastier alternative to MREs.
Scenic Wall Canvas Picture
Ok, so this one is half-joking. But I genuinely purchased this item. Sometimes your Army journey lands you in the bowels of a Pentagon SCIF or other windowless office-space. This gem can brighten your day and even in the wettest JBLM winter, can–when combined with working heat–convince you of warmer and sunnier times.
Running Armband for Cellphone
Whether you are doing intervals on a treadmill or running the Army 10-miler, this no-fills armband will do the trick. It features three slots (two small key/fob slots and 1 large cellphone slot) to hold everything you need on a run. Its non-slip material and compression design ensures you can focus on your next PR rather than fumbling with your phone. It is also machine washable, which you will surely appreciate after putting in the miles.
Darn Tough Socks
As the name advertises, these are some darn tough socks–and warm as hell to boot. These socks are so good that 10th Mountain Division now issues them as part of their arctic issue gear. Taking care of your feet is taking care of your livelihood, so get some great socks and keep those bad boys warm and dry. And as one user pointed out, “these socks come with a LIFETIME WARRANTY! It is how I justify buying $20 socks.”
Balance Board for Standing Desk
While we are talking about being on our feet, this one seems appropriate. I was already sold on the standing desk movement (Looking for a good standing desk? Check out the Veridesk HERE or a more affordable VIVO Desk HERE). But, when I saw a colleague using this balance board I privately judged him thinking “that looks stupid.” He offered that I use it one day and I was hooked. While I wouldn’t go so far as to say it noticeably improves core strength, it does reduce foot and joint fatigue. Standing for 12 hours in combat boots on a hard floor is rough on the feet and joints. And I have tried nearly every anti-fatigue mat out there, but they all get in the way of a quick transition to a chair. This board is the perfect solution! Added bonus…it is fun.
Cardstock for Personalized Notes
A personalized note can make all the difference. Joe Byerly talks about the power of a note on his blog–From the Green Notebook. It is such a small thing that sends a big message. These blank notecards from American Greetings are perfect for jotting a personal thank you to the Mechanics who worked late to help get your vehicle back in the fight, the S1 who helped schedule and run your PAI, or the soldier you just happened to notice “do the right thing” earlier that day.
Leuchtturm1917 Medium A5 Squared Hardcover Notebook (Army)
Speaking of green notebooks, here it my #1 favorite. I have used everything from the standard issue green notebook to fancy leather ones. Nothing surpasses the Leuchtturm1917. And the best part…it comes in OD Green so it can in fact be your “green notebook.”
Helinox Lightweight Collapsible Camping Chair
As the old Ranger saying goes, “never stand when you can sit; never sit when you can lay down.” Well we have the laying down covered with the hammock, and this portable camping chair will make sitting more comfortable and available. Whether during an AAR on the seventeenth SQD LFX lane or at the Combined Arms Rehearsal at the NTC, this chair is sure to provide some much needed respite.
Snugpack Jungle Blanket
I love my wobbie as much as the next grunt, and I would never dream of replacing it. But sometimes a more compactible and compression friendly option is needed. This blanket will do the trick! Just as warm and more compact.
Morakniv Swedish Knife
These knives are absolutely fantastic. They are SERE school issued, great quality, and offered at an insanely cheap price point. I know a certain Special Operations leader who bought these knives for his entire team–he swears by them.
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What gifts do you plan on getting for the tactical leader in your life? Which ones do you hope you get? Tell us what we missed on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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