Gear

In the Name of the Father

Last-Minute Gifting: Dad Edition

Dad. He’s the Count of Charcoal. The Prince of Pleats. The Duke of Deep Purple. Anyway, let’s hear it for the guy. If not now, then definitely this Sunday. Oh. Right. You still haven’t gotten him anything for Father’s Day...

FOR THE NATTY WHITTLER

The Barlow Knife from Best Made

What: A knife style that’s been around since the 17th century (Tom Sawyer had one), complete with two blades and a teardrop rosewood handle.
Why: Poor guy’s been using a pocket butter knife for the past nine years.
Level of Dadness: 10—it’s right up there with having a mustache.

FOR THE CHIEF OF THE TRIBE

Arrowhead Buckle from Sid Mashburn

What: A solid brass belt buckle. Shaped like an arrowhead. That was handmade in the USA and inspired by its original inhabitants.
Why: It looks great with jeans. Even Wranglers.
Level of Dadness: 8—would’ve been a 10 if it were in the shape of a pre-owned Buick Regal.

FOR THE CLOSET DANIEL BOONE

Fire Piston from Base Camp X

What: An ancient fire-starting device retooled with a Tennessee hickory piston receiver by the axe-wielding outdoorsmen at Base Camp X.
Why: For impressing your mom the next time he takes her camping. Try not to picture that and you’ll be fine.
Level of Dadness: Ask your mom. Also, gross.

FOR THE ILLUSTRATED HISTORY BUFF

Old West Comics from Powerhouse

What: Old-timey Western comics (think cartoon Jesse James and Davy Crockett) collected and restored by the former art director for The New York Times.
Why: Pops probably remembers these things. And you can’t put a price on nostalgia. It’s $24.95, by the way.
Level of Dadness: 10—it practically dads itself.

FOR THE EVERY DAD EVER

Haggar Pleated Khakis from Sears

What: Haggar pleated khakis from Sears.
Why: No sense in trying to fight it. Moms have mom jeans. Dads have these. They’re timeless classics. They’re marvels of the unmodern world. They’re... things he should really consider not wearing anymore.
Level of Dadness: Off the charts—our scientists are working on it.