I'm looking for some gift ideas. I have three sons and three nephews that I get to shop for a couple times a year. Instead of buying stupid junk they they will use once and throw away, I'd like to start giving them worthwhile 'outdoor' gifts that will last for years to come.

I'm looking for ideas for BWCA gear or general camping gear, hunting, fishing etc. What have you guys found below $50 that makes for a good addition to your outdoor gear?

I have no idea what they already have so...some of this may not apply.

Good nalgene bottle
Compass?
If they're into fishing...stringer?
Needle nose pliers
Multi-tool
Swiss army credit card looking multi tool (sounds odd...I got one as a gift, it's great)

You don’t say how old they are?

Morakniv knife
Multi tool
Monocular
Compass with map of a lake in the BWCA
Long handled Spork or knife and spoon (long so it reaches into a dehydrated meal)
Wind up emergency radio.

All these are pretty cheap to buy. I bought my monocular from Fleet Farm for $20 years ago. Mora knives are under $50 easily. You get the drift.

I'd go with general use items like sunglasses, day packs, fishing poles, and things like that. I'd stay away from gimmick items though. Things like the credit card multi tool are pretty situational, useful for some but useless for others.

Depending on their ages, educational tools might be a good option too. I've seen survival waterproof note cards that show how to start a fire, ID plants and other tips. These, along with the survival tools would make a great gift. Something you can practice with them too.

A Swiss Army Knife has been brought up before but I'll bring it down to a specific model. A SAK Farmer. Not a lot of tools but the ones you need and very pleasing to the eye. Plus it can be engraved with their initials if you want. Mine goes with me everywhere and what boy doesn't want a pocket knife.

I'll add a few that haven't been mentioned. I have 2 daughters, one that is very into the outdoors and so most of these have been hits for me in the past. I've * the ones that I have done that haven't been listed.

Sven Saw*
Map case*
TI spork*
Cup if it is upgraded*
Paddling gloves*
Sun hat*
BeFree water filter
Compass*
first aid kit
Rucksack or daypack

See what gear of ours they tend to want to use or take them to your local shop and what do they gravitate to (MWM if you are in MN).

John

My go to gifts for young ones has been headlamps or flashlights. Good for both types, those that love playing in the dark and those that are scared of it.

Outdoor books
Bug Whackers
BWCA caps or shirts

Here are a few great buys perfect for gifts. Some may be a bit over the $50 limit, but worth every penny. Couple items have been mentioned in other posts:

Leatherman Multi Tool
Etswing Hatchet
Agawa Boreal21 Saw
Ben's InvisiNet Bug Head Net
Wool Socks (L.L. Bean bean boot socks are a personal favorite)
Solar Inflatable Lights
Hydration Packs
Locking Forceps & Retractable Keychain/Carabiner
Portable Hammock

compression dry sacks
Versaflow water filter combined with
C'Noc bags

I gave some Luci Lights as gifts last Christmas.

Sven saw and fishing poles are great ideas.
Wrist rocket
Camo sweatshirts and gear
Choppers
MSR pocket rocket stove
yeti mug
binos
Field guides
Fur trapper hat
leather belt
a good flannel
The Meateater Guide series are great books
Tackle box
good flashlight
cast iron pan
Leather journal
Crazy Creek Chair
Dry sacks

From personal experience...don't buy them a hatchet

CabinAfter: "From personal experience...don't buy them a hatchet
"

Patrick McManus on hatchets.

TZ

TrailZen: "

CabinAfter: "From personal experience...don't buy them a hatchet
"

Patrick McManus on hatchets.


TZ"

Axes all day

Hi, I know you are talking about males- but if anyone reading this has a female they are buying for, I suggest a Kula Cloth. It sounded weird to me but after using it, I love it and do not ever backpacking without it.

Just trying to add something not previously mentioned:

Nephews are easier than sons. I think the Light My Fire Firesteel Army represents a fantastic gift for the nephews. Alternatively, start a tool collection for each. Pliers, a few screw drivers and a cheap tool box to start, a framing hammer for birthdays, buy a set of quality wrenches for each and gift them a single wrench from the set every year going foward. A quality tool box for high school graduation. I recall when my grandma gave me tools for the first time, I was 12. While I felt a bit disappoint then, I cherish them now- My first tools- I'll have them forever. I wish I were a bit more talented with a wrench but, I have amassed a modestly nice collection.

Sons are harder. It seems like gifts to sons should represent keepsake or legacy type of items. I don't have a worthy suggestion.

Good luck

REI gift card.

A leatherman tool with holdster or a good folding knife like a buck knife with sheath. Folding knifes-all outdoor people should have one.

Coansie: "Hi, I know you are talking about males- but if anyone reading this has a female they are buying for, I suggest a Kula Cloth. It sounded weird to me but after using it, I love it and do not ever backpacking without it."

I've been eyeing those. Might have to try one on your recommendation.