Well Thanksgiving is over and here we are, the last day of Montana’s General Big Game Hunting Season has arrived. I hope you all have been successful in you hunting pursuits, but please remember success doesn’t always mean filling your tag. Just being out in Montana’s natural beauty often fulfills our souls with happiness like no other experience can. For me, taking home a game animal is a bonus much like chocolate syrup on ice cream. I am truly thankful that I am a Montanan.

Now tis the holiday season and with it comes the question, “what gift can I give to my special hunter or shooter?” Here are a few suggestions for stocking stuffers for your special gal or guy, I hope they aid you in your shopping.

A bottle of Hoppe’s gun cleaning solvent, a clean gun is a happy gun, and the aroma of Hoppe’s is absolutely wonderful.

A membership in your local gun club. These usually cost between 30 and 50 dollars, a real value for a year’s worth of fun.

For the ladies, a new shooting vest designed for women; I suggest pink or red in color. No reason shooting gear can’t be fashionable.

Does someone in your life hold a concealed carry permit? Take a look at Alien Gear or Sneaky Pete holsters. They both offer innovative and inexpensive approaches to concealing a firearm.

For the handloader, I suggest the latest reloading manual from either Lyman or Hornady, believe me they will love it.

For the shotgunner, a couple of boxes of AA shotshells, the best there is.

Nearly everyone would like some .22 Long Rifle cartridges; hopefully you can find some. And don’t forget practice ammo for the handgunner.

Need something for the long range rifle shooter? A Caldwell™ Wind Wizard will be heartily welcomed. I know, I have one.

If you are still stumped, head out to the firearms retailers in your neighborhood. They will have bunches of shooting and hunting accessories that we gun people simply “can’t live without.” Happy shopping and Merry Christmas.

Be safe and good shooting.

Colonel Smoothbore

www.guncoach.net