I think most people who share the types of interests that bring them to a website like this would say they try to be wise. We try to be aware of what is going on around us and take action on what we see… not unlike three wise men who noticed a new a star and followed it to the most important Child ever born.

Isaiah 9:6

For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

My family and I hope that you and yours have a very, very Merry Christmas and that you get to follow that star together.

I have been getting heavy pressure to come up with a gift guide which I have generally resisted because, well most of what I write could generally be used as a gift guide, especially the Bargain or Just Cheap? and The EDC Tool Roll series. The JTT inbox had two emails in it yesterday asking about affordable gift ideas. While I am generally the least imaginative gift giver ever, I am relenting.

The following gift ideas cost less than $40 (much less in most cases) and you should be able to have them to your door before Christmas if you act fast.

Mini Pliers

Even if a guy already has a hundred pairs of pliers, the sight of these handy little buggers hanging out of a stocking will kick off MacGyver fantasies in any man.

The Knipex Cobras would be my pick but Tekton and Channellock both have more affordable, USA made options: Mini Pliers Comparison

Mini Ratchets

The VIM Tools HBR5 and GearWrench Micro Driver are going to appeal to every gun guy and tool guy. These tiny ratchets have the ability to drive both sockets and driver bits.

The GearWrench Micro Driver is often available at Sears on sale this time of year: GearWrench Micro Driver

The VIM Tool HBR5 is probably one of the top picks in this guide. It’s cheap, well made, incredibly handy, and one of the most popular entries ever in The EDC Tool Roll series: VIM Tools HBR5

Snake Eater Tactical IWB Magazine Pouches

These things are awesome. They can be used IWB or OWB and will fit every handgun mag the recipient owns. They also happen to be very affordable at $12. Get you order in soon: SET IWB Mag Pouch

Screwpop Utility Knife

These utility knives are cheap but handy which makes them the perfect stocking stuffer. No one can resist a tool that cuts stuff and open bottles: Screwpop Utility Knife

Fix It Sticks Replaceable Edition

This handy little screwdriver is right at home in an EDC tool kit or range bag. They are made in the USA by a company that doesn’t hate your guns… in fact, they make tools specifically for them: Fix It Sticks Replaceable Edition

Kershaw E-Train

If you know someone who is into training for self defense, why not get them a training knife like the Kershaw Emerson E-Train. Its affordable, well made, and it’s the kind of thing every gun/knife guy should have: Kershaw Emerson E-Train

ESEE Avispa and Zancudo

The ESEE Avispa and Zancudo are incredible knives for the money. They both carry easily, cut aggressively, and are backed with the ESEE warranty. That is hard to beat for the price: ESEE Avispa and Zancudo

ESEE Avispa D2