By Scott Hamblen
Father’s Day arrives each year as temperatures rise and summer takes shape. Between schools letting out and vacation planning, though, Father’s Day often catches people off guard.
Besides, dads aren’t the best when it comes to dropping hints about Father’s Day gifts.
However, knowing what activities dad likes is the key to finding a gift that he likes. Below is a helpful Father’s Day gift guide for the grill master, DIYer, outdoorsman, fisherman, tailgater, and other types of dads.
Grills
Does your dad want to earn the coveted title of “grill master” by family members, friends and neighbors? Behind every good “grill master” is a great grill.
Barbecue grills come in all shapes, sizes and brands. First, determine how many people dad usually serves when grilling. Then, determine what types of features dad would want in his upgraded grill.
Most grills can effectively cook all types of proteins – steak, ribs, chicken, hamburgers, hot dogs, fish and shrimp – as well as vegetables. The key difference is their heating source. The four primary types include gas, charcoal, electric and wood pellet, which has emerged as the fastest-growing sector of the grill market because it maintains a consistent temperature for long periods. Gas and electric grills heat quickly and take less time to clean. Although charcoal and wood pellet grills take longer to heat up and require more cleanup, the rich, smoky flavor is worth the time.
It’s also important to know the difference between barbecue grills and smokers. Grilling involves placing items over higher heat for a shorter period of time, giving meats a seared flavor. Meanwhile, smoking uses lower temperatures for a longer period of time, keeping the flavor and texture of meat from disappearing.
Tech-savvy dads might appreciate a new Wi-Fi enabled grill that can be controlled through an app.
Finally, determine your budget. Basic tabletop grills cost as little as $20, while top-of-the-line models cost upwards of $2,000 or more.
Drills
Most dads already have a drill or two (or more) in the garage. That doesn’t mean they wouldn’t appreciate a new one. Over the years, drill bits break, chargers get lost, batteries wear down and carrying cases break or rip. Technology has improved such that today’s drills have more built-in power, making it easier on dad. And what dad doesn’t appreciate more power?
DIYers may be able to identify all of the parts and pieces that come with a drill. However, those who don’t spend as much time in the workshop should consider purchasing a cordless drill combo kit. It’s important to have a high-powered cordless drill with fully charged batteries to remove hurricane shutters after a storm, as power outages can render corded drills useless. A good combo set includes an impact driver, hammer drill, battery packs and chargers, and should have a matching screwdriver and drill bit set.
Top-rated drill combo kits often include a carrying case to store and transport the tools. Generally, most complete kits fall in the $200 to $900 range.
Thrills
What dad doesn’t want to let loose and have a little fun?
To improve their chances at snagging a tournament-winning, trophy catch, the angler dad needs a high-quality rod, reel, lures and bait. Combo kits include everything an angler needs for a fishing trip. A wide-brimmed fishing hat, UV-protective fishing shirt and sport sunglasses are must-haves for fishing Florida’s waterways.
In addition to a portable grill, tailgater dads need something to keep their beverages cold during the summer heat. YETI offers coolers, ramblers and tumblers in a variety of sizes and colors.
The outdoorsman dad has a range of interests, opening up a world of gift possibilities. Along with camping supplies, a safe bet is a foldable, multi-use tool that includes a utility knife, screwdriver, scissors, pliers, bottle opener and other tools.
Competitive dads appreciate sporting goods like new cornhole boards and beanbags, a croquet set and balls of any type.
Dads don’t often drop hints about gifts they want (note: they probably don’t need another neck tie). That’s why it’s so important to make a list of dad’s favorite activities and maybe poke around the garage for ideas. When in doubt, you can’t go wrong with a gift card!
