They say that to give is better than to receive. Considering the state of the world today, giving that special concealed carrier a piece of high-quality gear might just save your life! Hey, it’s OK if you benefit from your own generosity, right?
I’m taking a slightly non-traditional approach with this list. Rather than barf up a list of the newest gadgets, I’m choosing stuff that actually keeps its place in my everyday use gear. You know, those items that I have consistently chosen to carry and use over the long haul. If it earns a permanent place in my limited pocket space, it must be good.
With that said, here are some of my favorite concealed carry lifestyle gift ideas.
Big Knife, Little Knife
The Blackhawk! MOD SFK Folder (top) and SOG Twitch II (bottom)
I’ve accumulated about a million folding knives, but the one that finds its way into my pocket just about every day is the Blackhawk! MOD SFK Folder. This Applegate / Fairbairn inspired design is about five inches long closed, but I just love the feel. The double hilt protects your fingers, and the handle grooves provide a sure grip. A finger tab allows you top easily open this knife one-handed. The pointed blade will suck at prying, but is great for everyday chores. You can mount the belt clip in four different positions to fit your carry and opening motion style. I don’t carry this one to be “badass” – I carry it because it’s so darn handy. It goes without saying it’ll serve as a great defensive tool if needed.
You can find one for about $130.
For the small folder, that’s also an easy no brainer. My all-time favorite is the SOG Twitch II. At just three and one-half inches long closed, it has an assisted open that literally flings and locks the blade into place with a touch of the finger. You can get it with a smooth or serrated blade, and a sliding lock keeps it from opening in your pocket.
MSRP on the Twitch II is $72.50, but you can find it for less if you shop.
Maglula Uplula Magazine Loader
The Maglula Uplula magazine loader is one of those things you won’t want to live without once you try it.
The Maglula Uplula is one of those things that you really can’t appreciate until you use it. I’ve always loaded magazines the old-fashioned way – by hand. Not because I’m trying to be macho or anything, I think it’s just been a habit. I gave one each to my wife and sister while neglecting to buy one for myself. Big mistake. Once you see how these work, you’ll never want to crush your thumbs again. The standard 9mm to .45ACP model loads most any single or double stack magazine effortlessly. There are a couple of magazine types that aren’t compatible, so check the website first.
You can get them at Brownells for $29.99 to $34.99 depending on color.
I EDC a Twitch, and never go to the range without an Uplula, so what can you get for the guy who has everything??