11 Unique & Practical Gifts for Rugged Dads
Good father’s are becoming harder and harder to come by this day in time. It seems there is a campaign to weaken the strength that a good father can instill in their child.
We need strong and capable men more than ever in the patriarchal position these days to raise children into solid and capable adults.
Besides protecting and providing, turning boys and girls into men and women is the primary job of a father.
A lot of times, a good father’s work can seem to go unnoticed. However, it is not his concern to be praised at every turn for doing his job. He just does what he does and enjoys the fruits of his endeavors through observing the results of his children growing strong in this world.
Whatever the occasion, if you’re looking to honor the father or father-figure in your life, the first thing you can do is to be the best you can be and just be there for them with love and respect. Sharing experiences is the best gift a father could ask for.
When it comes to figuring out what the old man needs to add to his garage, workshop, or sporting outfits, it can be a whole different story.
A lot of us already know how difficult it can be to shop for a Rugged Dad. He usually already has most of what he needs and has probably found a way to get most of what he wants.
With a little creativity and outside-of-the-box thinking, we may be able to impress the old man from time to time. However, a trip through his shop or garage may provide some insights into what he may need replacing or could use a better version of.
Today’s list is comprised of a little bit of both. We are attempting to throw some curve balls here and maybe show you something unusual for Dad this year, while also showing some practical classics that he just may need.
Whatever you’re looking for, when it comes to shopping for the Rugged Man in your life, you’ve come to the right place. If you don’t find what you’re looking for in this article, chances are you will find it somewhere at www.rugged-man.com.
Let’s get started by searching both the obscure and the practical with 11 Unique & Practical Gifts for Rugged Dads!
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A 2022 Gift Guide for Rugged Dad’s
Whitlox Wood-Fired Blacksmith Forge
(Full-size w/ Stand and Blower)
Made for burning raw wood and charcoal, the Whitlox Wood-Fired Forge is designed to provide an alternative to the dependency on fossil fuels to have a fully functional forge.
The deep fire-bed has sloped sides, making fire management effortless. An innovative tube within a tube draft design offers dial select precise air supply control.
The fire-bed itself has a movable divider to restrict the size of the fire to only the needed area, conserving fuel. Remove the brick from in front of the divider and you can lay a long bar across the fire unimpeded.
The 24”x 18”x 9" forge body is constructed of welded 11 gauge steel, nearly 1/8" thick and the wheeled stand makes it very portable. Just wheel it out for use and put it away when your project is completed. The stand is 28" high, built of 1/8" 1"x 1" angle.
Included is a cast aluminum Zomax hand-crank blower which mounts on the left side of the forge with an included bracket and ducting.
This is the perfect forge for anyone who has made the decision not to go with propane. You can decide just how big of a work area you want to use, as it is very user friendly in fire management and offers complete control of air flow.
The Whitlock family prides themselves on impeccable customer service and you can always count on getting to talk to a real person, in the family, who cares about your experience with Whitlox products.
FEATURES &SPECS:
The trench shape provides the necessary fire depth for wood to burn down to charcoal and concentrate at the draft line.
Eleven gauge steel construction for the ideal rigidity and longevity.
The fire-bed is lined with half inch thick kaowool mineral fiber batting to insulate and protect the body, keeping both the forge body and the shop cooler. Then a lining of firebricks is installed for durability and heat retention, making a smokeless fire easy to maintain.
A movable divider slides and clamps in any location, allowing you to concentrate the fire in just the amount of space needed for your project. If you need to heat the middle of a long bar, just grab tongs and remove the brick in front of the divider. The back of the forge is cut away to allow even a very long bar to lay across the fire.
The adjustable tuyere is one of the most innovative features of the full-size forge. The tube within a tube design allows you to dial up just the number of holes you want open, for perfect control of air flow.
Weight: 110 pounds
Dimensions 30 x 18 x 37 inches
Full Size
Material: Steel
Another DeWalt has made it’s way onto our list today, surprise, surprise. No need to go into how DeWalt is amazing again. We just wanted to throw you a less expensive option from this powerhouse brand.
The DeWalt DCS391B 20-Volt Max is a fantastic cordless circular saw for not only the job site, but also to have around the house.
This simple package is affordable and comes with, of course, the saw and also a fast charger and a 20V battery.
With a high speed (5,150 rpm) motor, this saw is fast and smooth with a 0 to 50-degree bevel capacity on a lightweight and durable magnesium shoe.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Powerful 460 MWO, 5,150 RPM motor delivers power and speed to make the most demanding cuts with ease
High strength and lightweight magnesium shoe provides jobsite durability for long-term cut accuracy
Same runtime and power in a lighter, shorter Package compared to DCB200
No memory and virtually no self-discharge for maximum productivity and less Downtime
High strength and lightweight magnesium shoe provides jobsite durability for long-term cut accuracy
0-50°(degree) bevel capacity allows for aggressive bevel cuts for a multitude of applications
Optimized rubber over-molded comfort grip delivers optimal balance and control; Power Tool Type: Cordless
6.5-Inch carbide-tipped blade for cutting 2 times material at 90° and 45° and more cuts per charge
Includes: DCS391 6.5-Inch Circular Saw and 6-.5-Inch Carbide-tipped Blade
Much like our previous entries, the STREAMLIGHT 88052 PROTAC HL is a compact and durable tactical flashlight that is ideal for EDC.
At 1,000 lumens on maximum output, this may have the least illumination capability on the list but is a worthy performer due to its construction and design.
This flashlight comes with three different settings including High/Strobe/Low, High Only, and Low/Medium/High, which not only allows for battery conservation (can be adjusted down to 35 lumens for maximum battery life), but the strobe mode is a great tactical feature which allows you to signal or disorient depending on your situation.
The type 2 Mil-Spec anodized aluminum construction is extremely light while maintaining durability.
The 240 yard beam throw at 1,000 lumens may be fairly short of what we’ve gotten used to, but this flashlight can also be adjusted down to 65 lumens at which point it can run for 20 hours and still throw a 58 yard beam!
The STREAMLIGHT 88052 PROTAC HL, like our previous selections, has the “dual fuel” technology; for recharging from the USB-C it will take about 7 hours. The battery has a half-life of 1000 recharges!
At six and a half inches in length and just over seven ounces, this is the second largest EDC flashlight we’ve considered.
My favorite feature is the self-adjusting battery cradle, which allows you to use multiple types and sizes of battery without them rattling around loosely inside the flashlight!
FEATURES & SPECS:
6.5” in length
7.2oz in weight
35 to 1,000 lumens
20 hours of runtime at 65 lumens
Self-adjusting battery cradle
Rechargeable via USB-C for “dual fuel”
240 yard beam throw at 1,000 lumens (58 yard at 65 lumens)
Anodized Mil-Spec aluminum
Water resistant
The 455 Rancher is ideal for jobs that require a high powered & heavy-duty, but not to bulky and big, chainsaw. It was my favorite on the farm and could perform just about any job that I wanted.
At the beginning of every day, when loading up the GATOR with all of the gear and tools I would need for that day, the 455 Rancher was ALWAYS with me.
It is such a versatile chainsaw (with an 18” - 20” bar), that if I needed to clear space, I would remove other larger and smaller saws and keep that one because it could do almost every job, large and small. It is Husqvarna’s Best Seller and for good reason. My top choice, as well.
FEATURES & SPECS:
55.5cc 20 inch gas chainsaw with guide bar and chain
2 cycle engine with Intertie activated chain brake for safety while operating
Simple, side-mounted chain tensioning system allows for quick chain adjustments while working
The quick-release air filter facilitates easy cleaning and replacement of the air filter
Husqvarna chainsaw with x-torque lowers fuel consumption and reduces emissions
For safety use with Husqvarna chainsaw chaps, chainsaw gloves and chainsaw helmet
Engine Type: 2-stroke
Power Source Type: gas-powered
For the Rugged Dad who like to hunt and/or fish, this is the wader for him. If he lives in a place where hunting conditions are similar to fishing conditions, you’re in luck here.
Whether duck hunting, stream fishing or any field, stream, marsh or swamp you tread, the Guide Gear Men's Breathable Insulated Bootfoot Chest Waders have you covered.
Guide Gear’s 4-layer fabric lets air circulate naturally, while still keeping icy lake or stream waters at a comfortable distance.
The 800-gram Thinsulate Ultra Insulation in the boots carefully regulates body temperature, stopping numb feet but keeping you from getting overheated while on the move while traction outsoles help you find your footing without a slip, and get in and out of your boat without any mishaps.
With the Guide Gear Men's Breathable Insulated Bootfoot Chest Waders, versatility is a strongpoint. Reversible buckles allow them to convert to waist-high wear, so in warmer weather or shallower water, you have plenty of comfort options.
As an added bonus, the Guide Gear Men's Breathable Insulated Bootfoot Chest Waders feature a number of pockets and D-rings to keep gear and tackle safe and accessible.
A YKK waterproof, fleece-lined zip pocket on the chest keeps valuables secure, while a fleece-lined hand pocket provides added warmth on cold days.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Breathable 4-layer fabric helps eliminate moisture build-up and keeps you cool
Non-bulky 800-gram Thinsulate Ultra Insulation in boots for warmth
Reversible buckles to convert to waist-high wear
Aggressive lug outsoles keep you upright on slick moss-covered rocks
Reinforced knees provide added durability
Hand pocket with fleece lining for warmth
Adjustable shoulder straps for fit
Adjustable waist belt and drawstring on chest
YKK waterproof zipper pocket with fleece lining to keep valuables secure and protected
Fleece-lined inner zip key pocket
D-rings for added accessories
The Danner Pronghorn 8” has been a trusted cornerstone in the Danner hunt line for almost two decades.
In fact, there are a lot of Danner customers who rely on this boot and this boot only for their outdoor needs and have stuck with Danner through every incarnation of the Pronghorn. I guess you could call them, “Pronghorn Purests”.
Our favorite cold weather lace up boot, the Danner Pronghorn 8" 1200G Gore-Tex has been through 5 generations of technology to be where it is today and where it has always been through every incarnation, ON TOP!
FEATURES & SPECS:
FULL-GRAIN LEATHER UPPER Danner puts their leather through six different tests before making a selection
GORE-TEX (GTX) 100% waterproof and breathable liners ensure that no water gets in, while allowing sweat and moisture to get out
1200G PRIMALOFT INSULATION PrimaLoft Gold Insulation offers best-in-class insulation for repeated compression and durability, making it the go-to choice for insulated footwear.
VIBRAM SPE MIDSOLE This rubberized EVA mid-sole maintains the same cushioning properties as traditional EVA, but is more durable and won’t break down as easily. This technology enhances rebound, comfort and support.
VIBRAM PRONGHORN OUTSOLE This fifth generation out-sole is extremely rugged and responds well in diverse terrain. It provides better grip and fits seamlessly into the Pronghorn’s streamlined, lower profile design.
TERRA FORCE NEXT PLATFORM Combines an internal and external shank system which helps to provide arch support and torsion control.
HOW IT FITS True to size with an athletic and supportive fit while providing ample room in the toe. Offering a specific heel shape that locks the heel in place for better fit and comfort on the back end of the boot, this supportive fit is ideal for those needing high mileage performance from their gear.
365-DAY WARRANTY If you suspect your purchase isn’t up to Danner’s unrelenting standards, or is defective in any way, Danner wants to make things right and offer a 365-day warranty across their entire footwear line.
When you get the Alps Outdoorz Commander + Pack Bag, you’re getting the Commander Freighter Frame plus a 5250 cubic inch pack bag. This system is great for getting all of your gear into base camp and packing all of your meat out of the field.
Once you get to base camp, get all of your things out of the pack bag and set up, the Commander then turns into the Freighter Frame, ready to haul out meat securely and efficiently with a unique lashing system built in.
With comfort in mind, Alps Outdoorz knows you’re aim is going to be to pack out as much meat as possible to put in your freezer. So, with comfort in mind, they have built in extra padding on the waist belt and shoulder straps, making your haul-out as easy on the body as possible.
They have included extra pockets for a flashlight, knife, and one specially made for your rifle. With this rig, you’re actually getting two outstanding products for the price of one with a budget friendly price tag to top it all off. For the money, this is an outstanding choice for your big game/meat-hauling hunts!
REMOVABLE PACK BAG:
Capacity - With a 5250 cubic inch main compartment, spin-drift collar top, lashing loops and multiple exterior pockets, the Commander Pack has ample room for your essential gear.
Spotting Scope Pocket - Spotting Scopes are essential for long distant hunts, keep yours secure in the 16”x 6”x 2.5” side pocket.
Drop-Down Rifle Holder - Whether packing in or out, keep your hands free and your rifle close using the Drop-Down Rifle Holder.
COMMANDER FRAME:
Lashing System - Designed for hauling meat, the Commander frame offers a unique lashing system. For extra large loads, three extensions straps are included.
Adjustable - The Commander offers torso adjustments from 17” to 23”, providing a custom fit for your body.
Freighter Shelf - Keep your heavy loads secure utilizing the freighter shelf. Simply lash the load to the frame and adjust the straps on either side of the shelf, to maximize the support.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Nylon Ripstop fabric
Rifle holder
Top loading
Pockets: two side accessory hinged pockets, main, front, spotting scope pocket
Spindrift collar with draw cord
Hydration pocket and port
Frame and lashing straps included with pack bag
Hold-open frame
Lower door access – #10 zippers
Internal horizontal divider
Webbing loops for lashing
Size: 5250 cu. in.
Pack Bag Weight: 2 lbs. 3 oz.
Total Weight w/Frame: 7 lbs. 5 oz.
Torso Range: 17" to 23"
Fabric: Nylon Ripstop
Waist Belts: Standard Fits Waist 26" to 40" / X-Large Fits 40"+
The Arctic Ice Extreme Conditions has turned out to be a personal favorite. I have yet to experience a boot that has NO limits when it comes to EXTREME cold.
Every boot has its limitations. However, I personally have never experienced a boot that challenges this rule quite like the Arctic Ice Extreme Conditions Muck Boot.
I have been in the tree stand in some bone-chilling weather in these boots and have not felt the cold creep in at all for hours.
When the cold did finally creep its way in (which, again, is inevitable with any boot out there) it was only mildly uncomfortable and extremely tolerable, allowing me to stay right there in the stand- still, stoic, and hunting.
Now, some common sense has to step in here at some point and we also have to realize that ice is ice, and nothing shy of a cramp-on is going to keep you from slipping on it.
But, I must say that I have been pleasantly surprised at the level of quality and performance this Vibram out-sole technology has displayed.
There have been plenty of times that I expected slippage to find myself standing firmly on the ground and even on some wet/icy and rocky terrains. Of course, testing these limitations is tricky and must be done with a lot of caution and respect, or one could end up badly injured.
Combine these boots with a good wool sock (at least one layer, though I like two) and a tiny bit of insulative space, and you’ve really got yourself a reliable situation in the throes of winter’s bitter chill.
Muck Boot also makes a camouflage version of this particular model to give you that added edge in the field for just a few dollars more.
To shop directly at Muck Boot for the Arctic Ice Extreme, click here!
FEATURES & SPECS:
Extended, soft rubber coverage; tough, flexible Spandura adds protection against wear; improved midsole for better support
Soft fleece lining enhances comfort, provides superior warmth, and is durable for long cold treks and comfort rated
Vibram Arctic Grip outsole pods deliver the most advanced traction on wet ice; Vibram Icetrek full base layer provides the highest level of traction on dry ice
Multi-directional outsole lug design offers excellent traction on multi-surface terrain; rear pull loop for easy on/off
Black & Gray color scheme matches any outdoor attire
Shaft Circumference: 17in
Boot Height: 16.13in
We may be bordering on too heavy for fishing, but I wanted to include a parka that can withstand the harshest elements.
Perhaps you’ve been reading this and wondering if the jackets listed thus far can stand up to Patagonia or north of the Arctic Circle.
The HELLY HANSEN MEN’S SVALBARD HOODED WATERPROOF WINTER PARKA is that jacket.
My favorite feature of this parka, aside from the articulated sleeves and wrist gaiters, is the insulation distribution. At 133g/M of PrimaLoft on the core and 100g/M in the sleeves this parka doesn’t just put in vents, it’s very construction is designed to keep your body properly regulated.
The dual polyester and polyurethane shell is 100% waterproof, windproof, and breathable and treated with a DWR (durable water repellency).
The zippers are YKK and the Helly Hansen logo on the chest and sleeve are reflective.
The hood is trimmed with a detachable faux fur, and is fully adjustable.
One of this parka’s features that ranks high up on my list, and it will probably crack you up, is that this bad boy is machine washable.
Usually parkas have to be taken to the dry cleaners or hand scrubbed and hung out to dry, but Helly Hansen has made the SVALBARD WINTER PARKA a cinch to freshen up.
Bottom line, if you are in very cold environments, or you are cold natured this jacket needs to be a serious contender.
FEATURES & SPECS:
100% Polyester front
100% Polyurethane back
100% Waterproof, windproof and breathable
Full seam sealed construction
DWR (durable water repellency) applied to exterior
Articulated arms and wrist gaiters seal out wind and elements
Zippered closure with zippered chest pocket
Adjustable hood with detachable faux fur
PrimaLoft insulation 133g/M on core, 100g/M in sleeves
Machine Washable
Accompanied by Smittybilt’s 60+ year reputation for reliable quality and durability, the price of the Smittybilt Overlander Model 2783 just can’t be beat.
For full timers or weekend warriors, this high-quality and inexpensive RTT is a great choice for the budget-minded adventurer who is not looking to invest a ton of money, but is also unwilling to settle for anything less than well-made and lasting gear.
Speaking of rugged, the tent fabric is made of 600D heavy-duty ripstop polyester impregnated with a waterproof coating. Anodized Aluminum tent frame poles and stainless steel hinges provide a trusty sturdy build.
The rainfly, supported by 4mm spring steel durable flysheet poles, is also waterproof and made of lightweight 420D oxford flysheet. Oxford is a different type of weave in the material that provides better strength and durability than standard plain weaves and is often used for heavier duty fabrics.
The floor is constructed of an 1” aluminum/polyurethane sandwich style base for insulation and added structural integrity. Sitting upon that base is a built-in 2.36” thick, 92” x 55” high density foam mattress with a removable and washable cover.
For you stargazers, the sun/moon roof can be covered or uncovered and both the door and windows are covered in a mesh net to keep out the mosquitoes and no-see-ums. This also allows for the fresh air of the great outdoors to flow freely through your cozy little nest to help clear the interior of moisture build-up and keep things cool in the summertime.
After you’ve gotten your fair share of the cosmos, a built-in LED light strip (that includes 12-volt extension cords that go all the way from the tent to your 12-volt cigarette lighter in your vehicle or an external USB battery pack) is conveniently located to assist in bedtime preparations or in ending the night with a good book.
Climbing in and out of your Overlander can be done with confidence on your wide and sturdy anodized aluminum sliding ladder that extends up to 6.8’ and has a load capacity of 265 lbs.
To protect your investment as it faces the elements on the open road, the ever important travel bag is a heavy-duty 650 gsm, 1000D PVC cover with a velcro lining for complete waterproofing and UV-resistant straps to prevent dry rotting.
Designed as a perfect fit for the Jeep Wrangler and the Jeep family, the Overlander can be a versatile fit for just about any vehicle so long as the proper racks are installed. Everything else you need to install it is included and easy to put together.
Now, kick back, relax, and enjoy a wild, yet predictable night of peace of mind and relaxing sleep.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Load Capacity: 661lbs / 300 kgs
Water Column: 1500 mm
Ladder: Anodized aluminum sliding ladder extends up to 6.8' / 2.1m
Ladder Capacity: 265 lbs / 120 kgs
Interior LED
Mosquito net
CE approved 12V lighter adapter
Shoe bag
Warranty: 1 year
Ideal for ANY Jeep
DIMENSIONS:
Open Size: 95"W x 56"L x 51"H
Closed Size: 47"W x 56"L x 11"H
Mattress Size: 92" x 55"
Ladder Length: 78"
INCLUDES:
Mattress
Travel Bag
Aluminum Sliding Ladder
Rainfly
Interior LED
Mosquito Net
Shoe Bag
Cigarette lighter adapter
I have chosen the Marcy Smith Cage Machine with Workout Bench and Weight Bar for The Best Home Gym for Strength Training in 2021.
I have used several different types of Smith Machines and this model is the best one I have ever used. There are a couple of big reasons why I encourage Smith Machines and particularly the SM-4008 model.
First, if you are like me and rarely have a friend around who can spot, the Smith Machine allows you to sort of self-spot by having the easy clip attachments.
This may not sound like a huge deal, but if you’re trying to build strength it will only come through taxing your muscles. Simply doing what is safe will keep you maintained, but it will not help you build much muscle.
The Smith Machine offers the ability to push yourself to the edge even when you’re by yourself, if you know strength training, you know this is a major perk.
However, the primary reason I chose this model is that The SM-4008 is simply not just a Smith machine; In fact, if you have or acquire your own olympic bar you can bench press, squat, deadlift and military press entirely free of the Smith bar because this model comes with two pairs of bar holders that attach on the front of the cage.
Let me be clear, a Smith bar can provide an excellent and taxing workout on all of the aforementioned lifts, but having the versatility to go off the Smith bar not only increases your strength but ensures you have the dynamism to know the SM-4008 is the only home gym you’ll ever need.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Top/low cable system
Pull-up bar
Steel aircraft cables, rated to 2,000 lbs
Chest fly station
Multi-position bench
Pop-pin knob
Removable leg developer
4 storage posts for weight plates
The machine stands 84.5” high at its highest point, and measures 79.25” wide and 65” long
14-gauge square steel tubing and features an adjustable back pad for added support
Footplate on the bottom pulley which is there for stability when row training with the V-handle, handle straps, or shiver bar
Maximum weight on the bar is rated at 300lbs and the bench supports up to 600lbs
The bar weighs approximately 20lbs and is equipped with olympic sleeves for supporting olympic weights. The bar is approximately 51” end to end and offers approximately 47” of grip space.
Plates will need to be purchased separately as well as any free weight bar you would want to add.
“‘Father’ is the noblest title a man can be given. It is more than a biological role. It signifies a patriarch, a leader, an exemplar, a confidant, a teacher, a hero, a friend.”
—Robert L. Backman
We hope we have at least helped to get your gears turning toward finding the right gifts for the Rugged Dad in your life.
It can be hard to find something he doesn’t already have, but some of the gifts on our list today are off the beaten path.
Whatever the occasion, the old man is worth it. If you didn’t find what you’re looking for, take a look at some of these links below to search other Rugged Man articles for that perfect gift. There are a lot of articles to choose from and chances are you’ll find something to satisfy his rugged individuality.
Thanks for stopping by! See all articles at www.rugged-man.com
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