I promise that this is my last Christmas list this year.  However, it just doesn’t seem right to give a list for fishermen and duck hunters while leaving out my fellow deer hunters. I’m sure Rudolph and his buddies won’t appreciate this but, deer hunters need love as well!

1. Heated vest
I just got one of the for myself from Pnuma Outdoors and it is amazing.  This vest operates off of a rechargeable battery that can also be used to charge your cell phone.  When the temps are frigid, it focuses on key areas of your core and really helps to keep you warm.

There are a few other companies that make these as well.  It is not necessary to get on in camo since it is worn next to the skin as a base layer.

2. Personal propane heater 
As you can tell, this old boy is not interested in getting cold.

A propane heater will warm up a box blind in a hurry and make hunting comfortable in any temperature. Remember that the more comfortable you are the longer you can hunt.  The longer you hunt, the luckier you will get!

3. Range finder
Today’s laser ranger finders are great for helping you know the exact distance to your target.

This is important for long range rifle shots as well as for a bowhunter. When you know the distance, you are able to aim better.

4. Hunting boots
For the deer hunter, scent control is important and so is comfort.

You can combine these two together with a high end pair of insulated rubber boots. Don’t get the cheap non insulated ones if you are hunting in the cold because you will feel like your toes are falling off. Instead, purchase a pair with sufficient insulation.  Lacrosse makes a great pair, in my opinion.

5. Binoculars
A great pair of binoculars really adds to the hunting experience. They will allow you to clearly scan the woods to look for deer or help you to carefully score a deer before you shoot it.

I recommend one that is 10x and as with most things in life, you get what you pay for.  While they are not the absolute best, Nikon probably makes some of the best for the money binoculars on the market.  I would also recommend Vortex.

6. Ozonics scent elimination machine
I have been recommending this product for years for one simple reason … it works.

This little machine produces ozone, which will destroy human odor.  Mine has helped me to get archery close to deer that I would have not taken without it.

7. A guided hunt
If you want to go all out, find out where your hunter dreams of hunting and buy him or her a trip.

This will never be forgotten. It may be to South Texas to shoot a wide racked buck, or to Kansas for a heavy horned giant.  Wherever it is, I assure the hunt will be forever cherished.

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As always feel free to call me if you need help in picking out a gift.  Remember Christmas is about Jesus, God’s gift to us!  Merry Christmas, my friends!

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Brian Johnson, originally of Port Neches, is pastor of First Baptist Church of Winnie, owner of DuckDogTrainer.com and outdoors writer for The News.