Not to sound judgmental, but $150 is a LOT of money to spend on a crappy gift, which is what you'd get with a gun in that price range. Were I the receiver a GOOD knife or flashlight would be treasured, and you could certainly do that for $150 each. I know Benchmade will do custom knives for at least the mini Griptillian, which is my beloved EDC knife. One of those with some nice dressed up grip material or engraving would thrill me to death.
Which gun for groomsmen?
- Thread starter ratt_finkel
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BSA1
member
My first thought is not everyone needs a folding knife and they are easily forgotten in a drawer.
However a nice fixed blade knife would be nice for deer hunting and camping.
I'm see some neat folders with tools for common gun repair in the field,
Leatherman...what more is there to say? Lots of different models.
However a nice fixed blade knife would be nice for deer hunting and camping.
I'm see some neat folders with tools for common gun repair in the field,
Leatherman...what more is there to say? Lots of different models.
Telekinesis
Member
Depends on which state the OP is in. If private sales are legal and the recipients are residents of the same state as the OP, then no 4473. If the OP is giving pistols and some of the groomsmen are residents of a different state, the guns must be shipped to a FFL in the groomsmen's home state in order for them to take possession.
Jim NE
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Totally agree with Manny and everyone else who's suggested a knife. $100 for a quality pocket knife and another 50 bucks for engraving is a gift that just about every guy would treasure for the rest of his life. A cheap semi-auto isn't. (Nothing against Cobra.)
I'm sure you could do it for even less than that. Here's an example.
http://knivesengraved.com/puma-presentation-pocket-knife-boss1.html
Armor Snail
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Out of those guns the Heritage would be most appropriate I think.
May I year though something more unique.
A Keystone bolt action .22LR hunting pistol. Fun gun for $150 and is one that is more classy then a Hi Point.
May I year though something more unique.
A Keystone bolt action .22LR hunting pistol. Fun gun for $150 and is one that is more classy then a Hi Point.
aarondhgraham
Member
I'm a semi-snob for quality handguns,,,
I'm a semi-snob for quality handguns,,,
But I would have been absolutely thrilled to receive a Heritage .22 revolver as a groomsman's gift.
I currently have a 4.75" Heritage revolver sitting on my workbench,,,
I'm making a western rig for the gun as a graduation gift,,,
The young lady is used to shooting my good pistols,,,
But I don't think she'll wince at a Heritage revolver.
This is the first heritage I've ever handled,,,
I took it out to "proof" the gun with 100 rounds,,,
It shoots to point of aim and went bang every trigger pull.
It may not last 48 years like my Colt Frontier Scout has,,,
But while it's here it is a fun little plinker.
Aarond
.
I'm a semi-snob for quality handguns,,,
But I would have been absolutely thrilled to receive a Heritage .22 revolver as a groomsman's gift.
I currently have a 4.75" Heritage revolver sitting on my workbench,,,
I'm making a western rig for the gun as a graduation gift,,,
The young lady is used to shooting my good pistols,,,
But I don't think she'll wince at a Heritage revolver.
This is the first heritage I've ever handled,,,
I took it out to "proof" the gun with 100 rounds,,,
It shoots to point of aim and went bang every trigger pull.
It may not last 48 years like my Colt Frontier Scout has,,,
But while it's here it is a fun little plinker.
Aarond
.
Cosmoline
Member
Check out Cabelas and Dixie for sales on the Pietta cap and ball revolvers. They are frequently in that price range.
Or search the auction sites for "lot" sales.
If it were ten years ago you could have gotten them all Nagant revolvers or even Makarovs, and they would have seen them triple in price.
Or search the auction sites for "lot" sales.
If it were ten years ago you could have gotten them all Nagant revolvers or even Makarovs, and they would have seen them triple in price.
BCRider
Member
Rat_Finkel, back in post #12 you said;
I'd suggest that the cheap options you're considering are not collectable. And in fact as firearms go they are eminently forgettable. I have to agree with Manny that suggested that cheap guns like these are simply too cheap to be valued by anyone.
On the other hand a quality knife is always something that will find a home with anyone that hunts, shoots or otherwise spends much time outdoors.
You could somewhat personalize it by giving a good quality fixed blade skinner to any of them that hunt and a nice folder to the others.
It basically comes down to the budget. I know that I would far rather get something simple like a knife that is of high quality than a more complex gift such as a handgun which is a bottom of the barrel option. And at your budget that is all you're looking at. On the other hand $150 will buy a DARN NICE knife.
I'd suggest that the cheap options you're considering are not collectable. And in fact as firearms go they are eminently forgettable. I have to agree with Manny that suggested that cheap guns like these are simply too cheap to be valued by anyone.
On the other hand a quality knife is always something that will find a home with anyone that hunts, shoots or otherwise spends much time outdoors.
You could somewhat personalize it by giving a good quality fixed blade skinner to any of them that hunt and a nice folder to the others.
It basically comes down to the budget. I know that I would far rather get something simple like a knife that is of high quality than a more complex gift such as a handgun which is a bottom of the barrel option. And at your budget that is all you're looking at. On the other hand $150 will buy a DARN NICE knife.
tacmedicp94
Member
I bought my best man, my brother, a Springfield Mil-spec 1911. The rest of the grooms party got a Buck fixed blade knife with their initials engraved on them. All of them really appreciated the knives. I can't remember the model number now, but they were good all around utility knives. Amazingly, no one cut themselves once the adult beverages started flowing at the rehearsal dinner.
Adam
Adam
HUGE +1 here.
Nope. There is nothing collectible about a cheapo, low quality gun.
QUALITY is collectible, and will be kept for generations. There is nothing inherently special about poor quality just because it happens to be in the shape of a gun.
In terms of nice knives, I would think a nice Case, Boker, Benchmade, Kershaw, etc...
Another option might be the customized knives you can get from Buck. There you get to pick the model, the materials, engraving, etc...
If a groom gave me that, I'd keep it and use it for the rest of my life.
My first thought given the target price was Derringer. Why has no-one mentioned that? I have never even shot one, but it seems to me the perfect gentleman's pocket pistol, akin to buying them pocketwatches but more fun.
I looked at Bud's and for just under $150 you can get blued or stainless in 22lr, 22mag, 38spl or 9mm. I'd go for 9 or 38 and you could have the barrel engraved then put some gold filler in it. I saw this stuff the other day and really want somebody to try it and report back http://www.forsterproducts.com/catalog.asp?prodid=700512
Of course with a firearm you'll have transfer fees to pay on top of the Bud's price but I suspect you could find a dealer to work with you locally.
Like most other comments, it's really hard to go wrong with a knife. Especially if it's a $100ish knife with some engraving done.
There's also the Leatherman MUT if they're shooters, that's a cool one. Leatherman tools can be a bit more personal, tailored to what each groomsman does for a living (or hobby).
I looked at Bud's and for just under $150 you can get blued or stainless in 22lr, 22mag, 38spl or 9mm. I'd go for 9 or 38 and you could have the barrel engraved then put some gold filler in it. I saw this stuff the other day and really want somebody to try it and report back http://www.forsterproducts.com/catalog.asp?prodid=700512
Of course with a firearm you'll have transfer fees to pay on top of the Bud's price but I suspect you could find a dealer to work with you locally.
Like most other comments, it's really hard to go wrong with a knife. Especially if it's a $100ish knife with some engraving done.
There's also the Leatherman MUT if they're shooters, that's a cool one. Leatherman tools can be a bit more personal, tailored to what each groomsman does for a living (or hobby).
Sam1911
Moderator Emeritus
When your pals think back on this are you going to want them to remember the crappy gun you got them or the very nice knife.
$150 will buy a knife nicer than "most" folks ever own. $150 will buy a gun few guys will ADMIT they own-ED, even after they ditched it (and another gun and/or more money) in a trade for something less crappy.
This is a groomsmen's gift. Someone mentioned a Hi-Point because it might make a good truck gun or tackle-box gun. You want your gift to rot away in the bottom of someone's tackle box or under the seat of the truck?
For the same money you could have something NICER than folks would normally buy themselves or something WORSE than they'd ever buy themselves.
That should make the decision pretty clear.
$150 will buy a knife nicer than "most" folks ever own. $150 will buy a gun few guys will ADMIT they own-ED, even after they ditched it (and another gun and/or more money) in a trade for something less crappy.
This is a groomsmen's gift. Someone mentioned a Hi-Point because it might make a good truck gun or tackle-box gun. You want your gift to rot away in the bottom of someone's tackle box or under the seat of the truck?
For the same money you could have something NICER than folks would normally buy themselves or something WORSE than they'd ever buy themselves.
That should make the decision pretty clear.
TreeDoc
Member
Mosin Nagant to the resecue.
CopperFouling
Member
That's cool. I've never seen that feature on Buck's web site. Take a look, OP; there are some interesting options.
Sheepdog1968
Member
I like the derringer idea as well.
WarEagleJP
Member
I gave my groomsmen each a very nice knife with their name engraved. All enjoy firearms, but it was something different for them. 5 years later when I run into each of them they rarely don't still have the knife on them. Makes me think it was a good idea.
ratt_finkel
Member
No matter what I get them. I think it will carry a lot of meaning. At the same time. Any gift can be tucked away and forgotten.
In an ideal world. I would give them all nickel plated colt 45's. But I don't have that type of budget. That being said, listening to some of you. It sounds like if I can't produce a 4 figure gun then I am doing them some great disservice. And I can't agree with that.
Obviously a Chiappa or Rough Rider is not something many or any firearm enthusiasts (myself included) would rush out to buy as soon as the funds pop up. That doesn't mean they can't take these guns to the range, or go plink cans in the back yard. And hopefully be reminded of the special event every time they pull the trigger.
As someone else mentioned, I would personally be honored to receive such a gift.
At what price point does something become acceptable for you nay sayers? What other comparable model would you recommend. The last thing I want to do is spend this type of coin on a dysfunctional firearm. Or one that will fall apart with even occasional use. I'm willing to go outside my budget potentially in order to get them something 'reliable'.
Everything I have read about the cheap revolvers gives me confidence they will fit the bill I have in mind, minus maybe the engraving.
P.S. None of them are hunters. And I don't think any of them have a regular need for a nice or multi-tool. Sure, I think they are cool. I have a nice swiss army I bought 20 years ago and still love it. But I would consider the knife option a backup.
In an ideal world. I would give them all nickel plated colt 45's. But I don't have that type of budget. That being said, listening to some of you. It sounds like if I can't produce a 4 figure gun then I am doing them some great disservice. And I can't agree with that.
Obviously a Chiappa or Rough Rider is not something many or any firearm enthusiasts (myself included) would rush out to buy as soon as the funds pop up. That doesn't mean they can't take these guns to the range, or go plink cans in the back yard. And hopefully be reminded of the special event every time they pull the trigger.
As someone else mentioned, I would personally be honored to receive such a gift.
At what price point does something become acceptable for you nay sayers? What other comparable model would you recommend. The last thing I want to do is spend this type of coin on a dysfunctional firearm. Or one that will fall apart with even occasional use. I'm willing to go outside my budget potentially in order to get them something 'reliable'.
Everything I have read about the cheap revolvers gives me confidence they will fit the bill I have in mind, minus maybe the engraving.
P.S. None of them are hunters. And I don't think any of them have a regular need for a nice or multi-tool. Sure, I think they are cool. I have a nice swiss army I bought 20 years ago and still love it. But I would consider the knife option a backup.
My first thought was a derringer as well... something that goes with formal wear and might not be something they already have. No idea of quality but 3 seconds of searching found this with nice rosewood grips... http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/...s_id/411549315/COB+DERRINGER+.38-SATINROSEWOD
leadcounsel
member
I hate getting junk or swag that is useless and just goes in a junk drawer or the trash or donated after I hold it for the obligatory time.
I'm very much about practicality.
If you can't raise you limit...
Gosh, maybe shop around and get Mosin Nagant rifles or pistols? Aside from drying up milsurps, it'll be hard to get quality guns for your budget. Oh, everyone can use a quality .22LR rifle. Maybe Marlin 60s for everyone, just outside your budget at $160+tax. http://www.basspro.com/Marlin-60-22LR-Rifle/product/10217878/
Every shooter can use a nice rifle scope, and for $150 you could find some on sale if you keep your eyes out.
Or I agree, Maybe a little quality get home bag for each guy...perhaps a nice set for each person, that includes a multitool, compass, knife, nice first aid kit, etc.
Or, instead of identical items, hand pick something for each that you think he would like, to show your thoughtful side. Thoughtfulness can steal the show and outsines budget nearly every time. I would honestly rather have an amazing personal thoughtful $50 gift than a $500 item picked up off the shelf...
OR, if you're more into 'experiences' - then I think a rafting trip, or a shooting range trip on your dime, or skydiving, or a fishing trip, hunting trip, or something like that - take lots of pictures to capture the moment.
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RetiredUSNChief
Member
OK, I just completely re-evaluated and trashed my original draft comment.
The thing about gifts to groomsmen (and bridesmaids) is that they are gifts commemorating the event in appreciation of their participation. The gifts may or may not be very practical or the best of quality, but they'll always be cherished in memory of the event. I know I've got a couple cheap-o knives somewhere for being a groomsman, but they were gifts and I wouldn't give them up for the world.
That said, the guns you get at the budget you've set forth will very likely do quite well for just that. Likely, nobody would expect you to be able to afford a top of the line combat pistol for six groomsman...or any other really expensive gift. But if what they get is a real gun that goes "BANG!" every time they pull the trigger at the range, then it's a winner. To that end, I'd avoid pistols and stick with revolvers or derringers. They are far more likely to be functionally reliable and, therefore, more fun to shoot.
Heck, many times the gifts to the groomsman are meant to be humorous or "gag gifts", because a wedding is supposed to be a happy event. To that end, maybe you could buy replica revolvers. They're well within your budget and many come with presentation cases.
They would be a unique and fun gift that could be displayed, as well.
Here's one site:
http://www.historicreplicaguns.com/
And here's a cap gun replica of a Colt 1873 SAA, complete with case and six reusable brass cap cartridges:
http://www.historicreplicaguns.com/cap-gun-1873-black.html
And here's a blank firing .357 replica revolver that fires 9mm blanks:
http://www.historicreplicaguns.com/blank-firing-gun-magnum-black.html
Some mounted displays:
http://www.historicreplicaguns.com/old-west-framed-sets.html
You're a guy...you KNOW something like this would bring out the kid in your groomsmen and put a smile on their faces.
The thing about gifts to groomsmen (and bridesmaids) is that they are gifts commemorating the event in appreciation of their participation. The gifts may or may not be very practical or the best of quality, but they'll always be cherished in memory of the event. I know I've got a couple cheap-o knives somewhere for being a groomsman, but they were gifts and I wouldn't give them up for the world.
That said, the guns you get at the budget you've set forth will very likely do quite well for just that. Likely, nobody would expect you to be able to afford a top of the line combat pistol for six groomsman...or any other really expensive gift. But if what they get is a real gun that goes "BANG!" every time they pull the trigger at the range, then it's a winner. To that end, I'd avoid pistols and stick with revolvers or derringers. They are far more likely to be functionally reliable and, therefore, more fun to shoot.
Heck, many times the gifts to the groomsman are meant to be humorous or "gag gifts", because a wedding is supposed to be a happy event. To that end, maybe you could buy replica revolvers. They're well within your budget and many come with presentation cases.
They would be a unique and fun gift that could be displayed, as well.
Here's one site:
http://www.historicreplicaguns.com/
And here's a cap gun replica of a Colt 1873 SAA, complete with case and six reusable brass cap cartridges:
http://www.historicreplicaguns.com/cap-gun-1873-black.html
And here's a blank firing .357 replica revolver that fires 9mm blanks:
http://www.historicreplicaguns.com/blank-firing-gun-magnum-black.html
Some mounted displays:
http://www.historicreplicaguns.com/old-west-framed-sets.html
You're a guy...you KNOW something like this would bring out the kid in your groomsmen and put a smile on their faces.
peacemaker45
Member
I don't think I'm the first one to say this, but I'll pile on anyhow. Your budget isn't really going to buy much gun. Probably your best bet is to look at some other item, like the aforementioned knife or leatherman. The kind of money you're talking gets you into pretty serious quality there, instead of pistols which are, no offense, bottom rung.
Inebriated
Member
You might could make a deal with someone on NAA mini revolvers or derringers. The .22LR versions tend to hover around $200. No, not as awesome as giving your groomsmen Sigs, but I would be pumped to get one. You could also get them the belt buckle holsters and have them wear those during the wedding lol...
But I agree with whoever said it, for your money, you would get more value out of a .22 rifle (Marlin 795 comes to mind at about $130 locally) or some nice knives. Plus, you won't be put on a form for buying more than two handguns in 5 days, or one transfer, or whatever the hell that bs is.
But I agree with whoever said it, for your money, you would get more value out of a .22 rifle (Marlin 795 comes to mind at about $130 locally) or some nice knives. Plus, you won't be put on a form for buying more than two handguns in 5 days, or one transfer, or whatever the hell that bs is.
bannockburn
Member
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I have given personalized Swiss Army knives (the multi-tool variety), as presents for a number of different occasions over the years and all were greatly appreciated and put to good use.
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