In our house, my birthday is a national holiday. My four year old can tell you exactly what kind of cake I want (for the record, it’s chocolate with whipped cream icing). My husband is meticulous in his searching for the “perfect gift” for me. This year, I’m making it easier for him by making my “wish list.” I’m curious to see what will actually make the cut. I’ll keep you posted!
Barnette TS380 crossbow
Confession: I have never shot a compound bow. I just don’t have the arm strength to draw the bow. My husband bought me a Parker crossbow for Christmas one year, and I loved it. However, there were a couple of major downsides to it. The biggest was the fact that I wasn’t able to cock it myself. Not a big deal as long as I am in a blind with my husband, but I also like to feel independent, so it frustrates me that I cannot do it myself. The Parker was just slower, heavier, and wider than I would want if I was going to use it consistently. And I am convinced that I will draw a archery Kentucky elk tag one day, so I’m going to need a new crossbow when that day comes.
The Barnette TS380 crossbow has an adjustable stock, so I am confident I could get it to fit comfortably. It is also compatible for a crank cocking device, so I can cock it myself. It weighs just under 7lbs so I would be comfortable carrying it long distances (if you know my husband, you know how important that is, since he usually sets up the blind MILES from the road). Customer reviews say that it shoots well at 40 yards, which is as far as I would feel comfortable shooting a crossbow anyway. Reviewers also brag on how quiet the crossbow is, which would be a major improvement on my first one.
Price: $528
How bad do I want it? Really bad!
Likelihood of receipt: 10/10
In my husbands opinion, this falls in the “need” category as opposed to the “want” category.
Garmin Instinct Solar Smartwatch
My husband bought me a Fitbit smartwatch a couple of years ago, and I love it. This Garmin is the Fitbit for the outdoorsman, and I don’t just want one. I NEED one!!! It’s solar powered, so you’re not dependent on access to a charger to use it. It has all the perks of the Fitbit, including step, sleep, and heart rate tracking, with the added bonus of O2 monitoring and GPS. There are also more “exercise” options, including hunting and hiking. This will be a game changer for me when it comes to combining hunting and overall physical wellness.
Price: $228
How bad do I want it? Desperately.
Likelihood of receipt: 6/10
I already have a Fitbit, but my husband being able to track me if I get lost in the woods would be a major selling point for him.
3M PELTOR Tactical Earplug TEP-100
I had to do a lot of research on this one to figure out what I would really like. Every wireless, rechargable ear plug manufacturer had “mixed reviews” when it came to the effectiveness of noise cancellation, but I chock that up to the notion that you can’t please everyone. With that being said, I believe the 3M PELTOR Tactical Earplug TEP-100 would be the best option for me. I currently uses noise cancelling ear muffs, and while they are wonderful, they are bulky and also aren’t the best option for communicating when you aren’t shooting. These earplugs offer ear protection while in the field without sacrificing your ability to have conversation when you aren’t actively shooting. They provide up to 16 hours of ear protection in between charges, which would be more than enough for me. The charging case can either be powered through the USB port or with three AA batteries. It also comes with extra ear tips so you can choose the size that works best for you.
They are a little pricier than I would like, but are relatively inexpensive in comparison to the heating aids I will need if I choose not to protect my ears now.
Price: $445
How bad do I want it? It would be nice, but my feelings won’t be hurt if I don’t get it.
Likelihood of receipt: 5/10
I am 100% sure I will receive wireless noise cancelling earbuds one day, but I’m not sure these will be what I get
Sitka Equinox Women’s Pants
When shopping for hunting clothes, none are better than Sitka. It is the gold standard. It’s also one of those things that I have always wanted to have, but refuse to spend the money on it for myself.
It’s hard for me to find hunting pants that are comfortable and durable. I am also a fair weather hunter. There is nothing I hate more than being hot while I’m trying to hunt. (That’s a lie. I hate being cold WAY worse) These pants are lightweight and breathable, so they won’t stick to my legs, even in the most humid conditions. They also come in two colors: a solid color and camo pattern. I’m asking for one of each!
Price: $159
How bad do I want it: I’ll appreciate them, but honestly will be fine if I don’t get them
Likelihood of receipt: 3/10 Paying over $150 for a pair of pants is a little bit of a big ask
Kimber Micro 9 Amethyst 9mm handgun
I remember where I was the first time I ever held a Kimber handgun in my hands. I can also remember the gut punch I felt when I looked at the price tag. Ever since, Kimber has been on my wish list, knowing that it would probably be there forever.
Typically, I am not a fan of guns that aren’t standard finish, but I am a sucker for purple. It has been my favorite color since I was in elementary school, and this amethyst finish has me drooling.
With an empty magazine, this 9mm weighs just under a pound. I think this gun would be perfect for my small hands and it would be easy to conceal. I am obsessed!
Price: $1,035
How bad do I want it? Bad. Really, really bad.
Likelihood of receipt: 2/10
Since it costs more than our mortgage…
