It is that time of year again when Christmas gifts need to be purchased. If you have a hunter on your list, male or female, here is a list of gift ideas. In general, hunters are easy to please, and quite a few area stores can fill your needs.

Knives: A knife is always a welcome present. The knife does not have to be real fancy or very expensive. I use one made by Buck called a 110. This model has been around a long time, and I keep going back to it even though I have several others I could use.

Utility tool: Every hunting pack should have one to deal with emergencies in the field such as a loose stock screw, a scope that needs adjusting, or just for taking a splinter out of your hand. From the original Swiss Army knife to the modern Leatherman tools, there is a vast selection to pick from that will meet a hunter’s needs.

Saw: Saws are one thing that may stay in the pack for a while but when you need one, it is good to know it is there. A folding saw is compact but still big enough to use for trimming a tree or cutting a bone.

Backpack: Of course, hunters need something that will carry all this stuff around. It should be camouflage and not too large. Lots of easy-access pockets come in handy. The backpack should be waterproof and made of a material that will be quiet going through the brush. When shopping for one, try them on to make sure they are comfortable and easy to adjust.

Binoculars: These are a very important tool for a hunter, right up there with a rifle and ammunition. Do not buy the cheapest pair, but remember that being the most expensive does not assure quality either. Try them out, preferably outside the store. You should look for clarity, light gathering and ease of adjustment. I prefer those that have a rubber coating. This helps to guard against all the rough usage they will get in the field.

Gun case: Guns and scopes can be an expensive investment, and they need to be protected from bumps and bruises. You have a choice between hard and soft cases. A hard case can take more abuse, but they are bulky and cumbersome. The soft case can be used to take the rifle into the field and is much easier to pack in a vehicle. If you get a soft case, make sure to find out whether it will be used for a shotgun, a rifle or a rifle with a scope. Also, measure the gun’s length before you shop.

Flashlight: A good flashlight is a must. The market is flooded with choices. I use a light that I wear on my head but always have a handheld light just in case.

Deer pull: This is rather a simple thing. It is a rope in a loop that has a padded handle on it. When loading a deer into a truck, you simply wrap the rope around the deer’s head and pull the animal into the bed. This device has saved my back a few times. I keep one in my truck. It also helps to drag a deer or hog out of the woods.

Spotlight: When you hunt in the evening, invariably the deer come in right at dark. Once you shoot, you may need a good light to find your deer. Flashlights help, but a portable spotlight works better. Buy one that will keep a charge for a while.

Hat: A good warm hat is a must for December hunting. The knit type is warm and comfortable. It can be camouflage, but a dark brown or black also work fine.

Gloves: These are a must to keep warm. Hunters who use them should practice shooting with the gloves. I use a pair that look like a mitten, but the top folds back and exposes a glove without any fingertips. This allows me to work the action and pull the trigger with bare finger tips.

Camouflage: Anything camouflage -- from a recliner to a housecoat to toilet paper -- can be purchased. Hunters love camouflage. It is their symbol that they are hunters and proud of it.

Well, there you have a few gift ideas for the hunter in your life. I hope you all have a happy and safe Christmas.

John Johnston is a retired sergeant detective who served with the Austin Police Department for 25 years. He resides in Lampasas County. To contact him by e-mail, please go to olsingleshot@gmail.com.