Joyous times abound as the variety of Holidays are upon us. With the weather getting colder (for those of us in the Northern Hemisphere), we look forward to spending time with friends and family. To assist with the cheer, we’re working to compile a few lists of gift ideas. If many readers are like me, we’re at a loss on what may be a good gift.

We’ll have at least three parts:

1. 10 Gifts for $10
2. Best Gifts Under $25
3. Best Gifts Under $50

We’ll start with the 10 Gifts for $10 mark as the worst of the recession is just starting to break but many of us are budget challenged but want to give the best we can to loved ones or find some stocking-stuffers for our tactical family.

So, without further adeau, a list of 10 great gift ideas for those who share a passion for firearms (in no particular order):

1. Ammo Cans & Storage

I admit it, I am not nearly as organized as I should be. This is likely due to the fact that I put far more of the budget into purchasing new firearms and accessories versus taking the time to organize what I already have. If you were to walk into my gun area, you would find things littered around with little organization.

.30 cal ammo cans come in at $9.99 (before shipping) from Army Surplus World and other suppliers. In addition, they can typically be found at most local gun stores. They are conveniently sized, easily stack-able, and if you check the seal, air and water-tight. Plastic containers can also be found on Amazon and other outlets for the small-parts organizers. 

2. AR Magazines

While many gun buyers will go out and purchase enough magazines to survive the Apocalypse, there are just as many of us who stick with what the factory gave us, often just a single magazine. Given the low replacement cost of a magazines on the two platforms, pick up a quick replacement.

BattleMags are going for $8.49 at Brownells

3. Custom Name-tapes & Patches

Our range bags, cases, and tactical shirts are all replete with hook & loop sections just begging to be customized. Name tapes are a quick and easy way to identify who-owns-what out at the range or to give a quick boost to the ego of the shooter who now sports some customization on their gear.

Places like MilitaryNames.com, 1800NameTape, and MutinyShop can all get you custom tapes in days.

4. Targets

We all need something productive to shoot at. I can’t tell you how many times I went to a range and forgot targets. While I enjoy supporting my local shops, often their target prices are triple what can be found online.

Splatter targets from a huge variety of sources including my favorite Shoot-N-See can be picked up for less than $10 from Amazon. 

5. Rimfire Ammo

At first, this may seem like a cop-out gift, but considering the shortage has began anew (most distributors sold out of 22LR immediately following the latest shooting incident), picking up a box of rimfire ammunition shows you really wanted to spend the time on the intended recipient.

Sources? Go to the local gun store. Boxes of 50 rounds should be easily picked up for $10. While online can beat the pricing, with shipping its going to get expensive.

6. Lube

Despite the preponderance of evidence that almost all firearms run better with lubrication, there are quite a few shooters who still do not use it. Why? I would contend that most forget to buy it out at the store and when they do have it, it sits at home.

A small bottle that can be thrown in a range bag can go a long way and even last a long time. “Standard” Break-Free CLP is a solid option (but one of many, many out there). 2 ounce bottles for as little as $3 and the 4 ounce bottles for $4.99. Get two to cover the truck and range bag.

7. Magazine Marker Bands

In today’s multi-caliber world with calibers that can be accidentally chambered and ignited  like 5.56 and 300 BLK, its always a safe play to keep the calibers separate. A couple of companies have stepped up to the plate with options to keep the calibers straight.

Faxon Firearms started the movement with their Mag Marker Bands ($9.99 with free shipping) and other companies are starting to offer their own versions with plenty popping up on eBay. ($1.99/piece for single bands).

8. Cleaning Supplies

While the military-surplus cleaning kits are OK, there are far better solutions out there. Take your pick of improvements, but I am a fan of one-piece cleaning rods. No danger of scratching a bore and with a handle on a bearing, is easy to run cleaning cloths through with the rifling for maximum scrubbing effect.

A single-piece rod from Hoppes is only $8.49

Or, if you absolutely must go a sectional rod, Hoppe’s kit is pretty good too. (The Editor Says says “PLEASE DON’T”)

9. Dummy Rounds

Practice, practice, practice. They are available in every single caliber known to have been produced. Options abound as well ranging from de-milled brass rounds to simply injection-molded plastic, so its easy to pick what matches your shooter.

There are a veritable plethora available from Amazon and Brownells. 

10. Buddy Range Supplies

Part of the joy of shooting is being able to share it with others. Unfortunately, many new shooters arrive as a blank slate, including the most basic safety equipment like eye and hearing protection.

Fortunately for them, basic safety equipment is inexpensive. ANSI rated eye protection is less than $5.00/unit (and quite stylish if I say say myself). Hearing protection is even less expensive. Its less than $10 for 50 pairs, which can last quite a few range sessions. 

Any Other Suggestions?

We can’t cover everything, so what are other ideas coming in under 10 dollars?