Thanksgiving is the only holiday left between now and Christmas. That means you still have time to shop for gifts but Christmas will be here before you know it. If you need a few tips for affordable gifts or stocking stuffers, check out the list below. These are ten of my favorite items that would make perfect stocking stuffers for the shooter or LEO in your life. Items are not ranked in any particular order and are chosen solely on the basis of they have made my life in the field easier.
Streamlight Microstream USB Rechargeable Pocket Flashlight This USB rechargeable flashlight is extremely compact and even fits in women's pockets. It has served as my EDC flashlight and my on-duty backup, backup, back, backup, flashlight (yes that was 4 "backup" flashlights). It is a great travel flashlight, TSA friendly, and comfortable to have in your pocket on those long plane or car rides. Note: The Coyote model activates in high lumen mode on first press but the other colors activate in low lumen mode on first press. I prefer the Coyote High Lumen model.
NAR Gen 7 CAT Tourniquet There are a few excellent models of tourniquets out there but I prefer this one for on and off duty carry. This one is tried and true, lightweight, and durable. Whether or not you carry a gun, consider carrying a tourniquet on or near your person. You could be the difference maker when seconds count and help is minutes away. If you are shopping for a shooter or LEO in your life, they will appreciate having a spare tourniquet for sure.
Duracell CR2032 3V Lithium Battery You can never have too many spare batteries for optics. Get your loved one these Duracell batteries so they have the highest quality spare batteries on hand instead of opting for cheaper off brands likely to fail.
SureFire SF12-BB Boxed Batteries I always need all the CR123A batteries I can get and the seem to go quickly, no matter how many I purchase. These would definitely be appreciated by whoever you gift them to.
SureFire 123A Rechargeable Batteries Includes Charger These Surefire 123A rechargeable batteries don't last as long as their non-rechargeable counterparts but being able to have fresh batteries everyday is a real draw. Are we sensing a theme here?
Howard Leight by Honeywell Impact Sport Sound Amplification Electronic Shooting Earmuff I have found these to be the highest quality electronic earmuffs within the lower price point. Having used my first set since 2010, I can attest to the quality and durability of this item. Several years ago, I replaced the earcups with the Noisefighter gel earcups and they're still one of my most comfortable and best performing set of earmuffs under $300. Keep an eye out on these. Different colors will go for different prices at times. There is usually at least one color on sale for under $50.
QUIQLITEX USB Rechargeable Hands-Free LED Pocket Light I had the non-rechargeable Quicklite Pocket Light for years but lost it about a year ago. I haven't replaced it out of sheer laziness but this USB rechargeable version is knocking some sense into me. Being able to fill out field interview cards and citations without using my handheld flashlight or relying on ambient light is a game changer.
Streamlight CuffMate Flashlight As cheesy as this looks, being able to see when you're trying to uncuff or double lock a set of handcuffs is invaluable! Being able to get it done quickly because you can actually see can increase officer safety.
ASP Scarab Trifold Cutter For those who use flexcuffs often or even ocasionally, having the right tool to remove those flexcuffs really cuts down on liability. I don't use mine too often, but when I have needed it, I was really grateful to have it on hand.
Cupholder Expander This is something I use EVERYDAY in my work and person vehicles. I'm the type of person that will get a cup of coffee in the morning and sip on it until lunch time then drink nothing else for the rest of the day if not an energy drink. Having this large cupholder means I can keep my 40 ounce water bottle next to me instead of haphazardly flying around during code-3 runs and threatening to give me a concussion. I also drink more water when it's a visible reminder and not something I have to go out of my way to get or do.
Aside from the Surefire Rechargeable CR123A batteries and Quiqlite Rechargeable Pocket Lite, I have personally used all these items and can truly say they have made my job easier or more convenient. These items would make great gifts and/or stocking stuffers for the shooter, LEO, or anyone in your life. These recommendations are based on my personal experience, not because of the small affiliate commission I may receive at no extra cost to you.
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