Holiday Gift Guide: Guns & Gear [2025]
Tons of awesome hand-picked gifts across all budgets for the gun lover in your life (even if it's yourself). Plus pics, videos, and reviews of each.
PPT Founder. NRA Pistol Instructor. USPSA/3-Gun/NRL22 Competitor. 250+ articles
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Want to give or get something awesome this year?
We see, test, and abuse a ton of gun stuff here at Pew Pew Tactical.
Here are some of our perennial favorites...as well as new things across all budgets.
Table of Contents
Ammo In Stock
9mm Ammo in Stock
5.56 and .223 Ammo in Stock
Shotgun Ammo in Stock
Other Ammo in Stock
And check out our Best Places to Buy Ammo Online if you need more suggestions.
Mags
You can never have too many magazines...
Or my fav...Gen 3 Windowed for $12.99
Or increase your capacity with Daniel Defense 32-round AR mags for $25.
How about some Glock variants?
or AK stuff?
Got some rarer tastes? Check out our Best Places to Buy Mags Online.
Guns
Here are some of our favorites that we've loved during 2025.
Daniel Defense PCC 916
If you are looking for a PCC that offers more features from a notable brand, the Daniel Defense PCC 916 is a great option. The PCC 916 has three versions -- a pistol-braced 8.3-inch barrel, an SBR of the same dimensions, and the full-sized. We tested out the full-sized model and found that it offered a lot of modularity and great ergonomics in a reliable and accurate platform.
You can take a peek at the DD PCC 916 in our video below or read the full review for more.
Andro Corp ACI-15 Bravo
Like a lot of y'all, we've had to watch our spending this year. That led us to review a handful of budget AR-15s to see which was the best. The four we tested proved to be decent options ,but one really stood out -- the Andro Corp ACI-15 Bravo.
It doesn't have a lot of bells and whistles, but it surprised us with its accuracy and reliability. Plus, it comes in at $399!
You can watch the full round-up in the video below!
Ruger SFAR AR-10
Another rifle that surprised us with how well it performed was the Ruger SFAR AR-10. Chambered in .308, the SFAR earned high marks from us for its ergonomics, accuracy, and reliability. Not to mention, it's priced around $1,000 -- well below a lot of AR-10s.
You can read our full review here or watch the video below for more info.
Mossberg 990 Aftershock
The Mossberg 990 Aftershock is a great option for shotgun lovers who want something a little more compact. During our testing, we noted that it was extremely accurate and reliable with lots of customization options.
You can watch more below or, as usual, read the review.
Springfield Echelon 4.0C Comp
Springfield knocked it out of the park this year with the Echelon 4.0C Comp. We were pretty impressed with the ergonomics and accuracy. It shot flawlessly and smoothly! It's a little pricier but well worth the extra cash.
Check out more details in our full review of the Echelon 4.0C Comp.
Smith & Wesson 632 UC
This one isn't a "new" gun, but we did have the chance to test it out next to some other underrated CCW options, and our crew really liked it. The S&W 632 UC is a solid revolver with a 6-round capacity, chambered in .32 H&R Magnum. Its recoil is softer than .38 Special, and its grips make it super comfy to shoot.
Popular Other Guns
Looking for our ongoing favorites across popular categories? Here they are!
- Best AR-15s
- Best Budget AR-15s
- Best Beginner Handguns
- Best Concealed Carry Guns
- Best Tactical Home Defense Shotguns
- Best 9mm Pistols
- Best Guns for Women
Optics
Optics are still staying in stock since it seems this year's buying spree was more centered around firearms and ammo.
Vortex Viper 1x24mm
Budgets are tight, and we understand that!
That's why the Vortex Viper 1x24mm red dot is our go-to budget red dot. Coming in under $115, it's a solid red dot with a good reputation.
If you want a different colorway, other than just black, consider checking out the OpticsPlanet OPMOD version as well!
Sig Sauer Romeo 5
We've tested a lot of red dots through the years, and right now the Romeo 5 is still our favorite red dot under $200.
Check out our full review.
Primary Arms SLx 1-6x Gen IV
Check their latest SLx 1-6x Gen IV ACSS Scope is in stock for $339. We loved the Gen III, and the Gen IV is even better.
See the full review for what is our best bang-for-the-buck 1-6x scope.
Trijicon RMR
Several have tried to unseat the king of pistol red dots.
But our favorite super-durable option still goes out to the Trijicon RMR.
However, there are still tons of more affordable options in our Best Pistol Red Dot review.
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x & Mount
A great deal for another LPVO that comes with a mount is the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x from PSA. As long as their code STRIKE holds up, you get the combo for $239.
Holosun 507C X2 ACSS
For a few years our new favorite pistol red dot might be the Holosun 507C X2 ACSS done in collab with Primary Arms.
Check out our full review here.
Now...let's jump into some rifle stuff!
AR-15 Upgrades
Another year passes, and it feels like we're a little stuck with AR-15 innovation. But these are some of our favorites.
Precision Armament M4-72 Severe Duty
Our overall favorite AR-15 muzzle brake is the M4-72 Severe Duty.
It's loud, and your buddies on the side will hate you...but wow, your reticle doesn't move!
And it's not a terrible value compared to others.
Check out the rest of our tested brakes in 8 Best AR-15 Muzzle Brakes or if you're going big boy...6 Best .308 Muzzle Brakes.
Suppressors
How about going for the soft pew?
Check out our favorites in each kind of caliber...
Best 5.56 and .30 Cal Suppressors
Best 9mm & .45 ACP Suppressors
SBA3 Pistol Brace
AR-15 Pistols are back...see more details in Pistol Braces & the ATF...and if your loved one hasn't picked one up, it makes an easy holiday gift!
Or you can nab a full lower with the brace already attached from PSA.
Ballistic Advantage Barrels
Building a new upper? You'll need a nice barrel.
One of my favorites for accuracy and affordability is Ballistic Advantage Barrels. I use plenty of their 5.56 variants, and my newest builds have been .300 Blackout.
Find out why I use it in most of my builds and why I always recommend it to my buddies in the full review.
Superlative Arms Adjustable Gas Block
Want to further reduce your reticle movement?
You might want to check out an adjustable gas block and tune it for your specific loads.
The Superlative Arms bleeds off the excess gas so your BCG doesn't smash into you unnecessarily. It really makes a world of difference.
Of course...full review here.
STNGR Handguards
My still best bang-for-the-buck handguards for new builds goes to the STNGR VYPR.
What it doesn't have in vowels they make up for in fit/finish/color...and price.
The cuts are aggressive, which helps with the weight (11.5 oz), but I was afraid it was almost too aggressive so that my finger would touch the barrel.
But with plenty of mags and shooters...none of us had that problem.
Oh yeah, there are other models too, like the VLCN with minimal top rail, which is the basis of our night vision upper.
See more in Best AR-15 Handguards. But this is my best value pick.
Tyrant Designs AR-15
Want your AR-15 to look good and function better?
We're fans of the Tyrant CNC aluminum grip and foregrip which offer great aesthetics as well as some comfy rubber material.
A little spendy but worth it.
EDC
Kershaw Leek
Everybody can use a handy knife…even if it’s to just slay some Amazon boxes.
And my go-to affordable option is the Kershaw Leek.
Super sharp, enough heft to feel quality, fast flip-out, and not the worst feeling in the world if you misplace it.
Range Gear
Guns...check. Ammo...check. How about the other stuff you might need?
ShellShock Ear Protection & Eye Pro
Our current rec for affordable electronic ear protection that filters out gunshots and amplifies other sounds like talking, so you're not yelling at the range.
Plus a combo with SWITCH glasses that include both clear and smoke lenses.
Check out how they compare vs other ear pro in our Best Ear Protection article.
Pelican 1500
My go-to hard case for pistols is the Pelican 1500. And coupled with some custom foam...it carries everything I need for a range day.
See more of our favorites in Best Gun Cases.
5.11 Range Bag
How about our go-to range bag?
It's big...it's sturdy. It's the 5.11 Range Bag.
But for those that might not need a ton of space...check out our Best Range Bags.
Savior Equipment Rifle Bags
We've been through covert and range bags... what are our favorite rifle bags?
For most things, it's going to be Savior Equipment.
High quality Cordura and stitching compared to el cheapo bags. Now they have Black Multicam...but it lokos like they might need a restock.
I've been hauling multiple rifles with optics on each range trip with them for years, and so far, they've held up well.
See more analysis and other picks in Best Gun Cases.
Celestron 52250 Spotting Scope
Our go-to spotting scope for most people just getting into long-range shooting.
The Maven is expensive but well worth the hefty price tag for crisp views.
If you need something a little more affordable...check out our Best Spotting Scopes article.
Caldwell DFT 2 Lead Sled
We do a lot of benched shooting for groups...
And our go-to is the Caldwell DFT series of lead sleds.
Caldwell DeadShot Combo
If you need something a little more portable and gives you more feel than a true lead rest...
Check out the DeadShot Combo which has a nice height that accommodates a wide range of rifles.
Swag
Ok...a little self promotion here!
Our Woobies are back with more colors that will keep you warm and oh so comfy during winter.
Plus a restock on our popular Government List shirts...because you know...
And a bunch of new Pew Pew Tactical shirts and patches. Thanks so much in advance for your support!!
Glock Upgrades
Tyrant CNC Glock Package
Since custom Glock frames have flooded the market...the race is on to make your Glock the most unique looking out there.
One of my current favorites is Tyrant CNC's extended mag release, extended mag bases, and slide plate.
Check out more of my favorite Glock Upgrades...from pure performance inside to cool looking stuff on the outside.
Soft Goods
SKD Shooting Gloves
If it's too hot or too cold...or you don't want your hands to get ripped up.
You'll want some nice shooting gloves that give protection but don't hinder your trigger finger.
My pick for overall shooting gloves is the SKD Alpha.
Learn more about them as well as my other picks (such as thinnest gloves and best for women) in our Shooting Gloves article.
ShellShock Shooting Glasses
If you're looking for some sweet eye pro, the Eclipse photochromic glasses are a real favorite.
They change tint based on whether you're inside or outside and are really comfortable to wear. You can grab them in classic black or, my fave, tan.
How about protecting your eyeballs?
Check out more budget (and baller) picks in Best Shooting Glasses.
Pew Pew Tactical Flatline Sling
We've used all the slings out there...and we've come up with our own. Check out our Pew Pew Tactical Sling made by Flatline Fiber down in Georgia.
Incorporating just the right amount of padding and a slick pull tab to adjust your length.
And of course...available in Multicam and Black Multicam. Black Multicam is currently sold out but will be back in stock soon!
Looking for something more than a standard AR-15 sling?
We go over all the other options like single-point, pure leather, and Ching slings in Best Rifle Slings.
Lynx Defense EDC Backpack
Looking for a nice backpack that doesn't scream TACTICAL?
Enter the Lynx Defense EDC Backpack. It's got a discreet compartment perfect for carrying as well as a large open compartment that is roomy enough to fit quite a few things.
Pelican SRVL 1 & SRVL2
Pelican recently jumped into the prepping space with the arrival of the SRVL series. We tested out the SRVL1 and SRVL2 and were generally impressed with the offerings and maneuverability of both.
The SRVL1 is great as a backpack and 1-person go-bag when things get iffy, while the SRVL2 is better suited for a couple or roommate situation. They come already stocked with 72 hours' worth of survival musts, nicely organized for easy use.
Hard Goods
Mira Safety Level IV Ceramic Armor
We love Mira Safety for their heavy-duty CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear) gas masks. See our Best Gas Masks article.
But now they have Level IV ceramic body armor that did the best in our ballistics testing.
They were able to fully stop two shots from 30.06 M2AP armor piercing rounds...while the other contenders only stopped one.
Mira Safety Gas Masks
I didn't know where else to place this...but if you're prepping for some stuff to go down you'll want some gas masks in the mix. And these bad boys were our fav in Best Gas Masks.
Ballistic Helmet from Hard Head Veterans
Need some Level 3 and frag protection for your noggin?
We've been testing the previous version and also the current gen of Hard Head Veterans' ballistic helmet.
They are really comfy and have all the mounting platforms you'll need for your night vision and comm gizmos.
And check out our other picks in Best Tactical Helmets for some non-ballistic recs too.
SecureIt Safe
Looking for a flat-packed safe that isn't so heavy that you'll need to hire people to move it?
We really like our SecureIt Agile 52 which comes in around 100 lbs packed up.
It doesn't take the place of a full-blown safe for protection...but when deterrence ,modularity, and ease of install is the name of the game...
Plus a full review here and video!
Steelhead Fast Access Pistol Box
What about our favorite pistol safe for when something goes bump in the night?
We used to love the Fort Knox FTK-PB but have since switched our go-to to the Steelhead Fast Access Pistol Box.
Sturdy, decent amount of space for two handguns, and most of all...Simplex lock for super fast retrieval.
See it in action in our Best Gun Safes article.
Vaultek VT20i & Lifepod
Looking for something higher tech?
The Vaultek VT20i and VT10i bring fingerprint scanning, Bluetooth, and apps to the safe world.
Check out our full review of the duo here.
How about a nice travel container that's discreet but still protective?
The Lifepod is my go-to for quick hotel and Airbnb trips where I only need one compact gun (with lights and an extra mag).
Check it out in action:
See more in our Best Quick Access Pistol Safes.
Lights
All of the lights! We're in the middle of testing a whole new batch of pistol, rifle, EDC, and tactical lights.
But here are our running favorites...
Streamlight ProTac 2
Our most recommended light for almost everyone out there is the ProTac 2.
It doesn't break the bank and has a nice output of 625 lumens. Plus comes with a nice pressure pad and mount!
We've been using several of them for our defensive and competitive guns.
See more of our favorites in Best AR-15/Rifle Lights.
Streamlight TLR-1HL
We like our Streamlights...and the TLR-1HL is our favorite pick for pistol light.
The HL model runs an eye-searing 800 lumens and continues our good experience with Streamlights.
My original TLR-1 is at 5000 rounds and still going strong.
Olight PL-Mini Valkyrie 2
Looking for something a little more affordable?
The PL Mini Valkyrie 2 has a good reputation and took everything we threw at it in our own torture tests.
Check out our full review here complete with drop tests, water submersion, tons of rounds downrange, and beam pictures.
See more of our tested torches in Best Pistol Lights.
Holsters
There are many holsters, and we cover them all in our Best Holsters article. But here are some selected ones in the biggest categories.
Hidden Hybrid Holsters
Our current favorite in the world of "hybrid" holsters...basically Kydex shell and either leather or synthetic....is Hidden Hybrid Holsters.
I like HHH's Amish leather since it gets that Goldilocks level of rigidity plus nice-feeling suede.
Boom!
See our full review of them here.
Kore Essentials Belt
Use code PEWBELT10 to save 10% over at TriStar Trading (our merch store).
With great holsters comes (the need for) great belts.
Our current go-to CCW belt is Kore Essentials.
The right amount of stiffness and nothing too tactical looking to scream "I Have a Gun in my Pants."
Plus the ability to easily change the size when you're sitting down for extended periods of time.
Check out the full review of them.
Rounded Gear
My go-to for an affordable pure Kydex option is Rounded Gear which excels in AIWB (appendix inside waistband) but now has tuckable and OWB (outside waistband) options.
And see it in action here:
Check out the full review here.
Tenicor
A new contender in the pure Kydex realm is Tenicor. They are pricey but really comfortable.
They are formed for actual bodies and have some super effective retention clips.
What I'd recommend if you're serious about appendix carry, comfort, and absolute retention.
Tools/DIY
Wheeler Torque Wrench
I use the Wheeler Torque Wrench almost every time I do something at my bench.
If you're even semi-serious about gunsmithing...get one!
Real Avid AR-15 Armorer's Master Kit
Looking for an all-in-one AR-15 kit?
Boom, the Real Avid kit is it.
Check out our full review.
Leatherman Wave+
Our current favorite multitool is the Leatherman Wave+.
It has almost everything you need in an EDC multitool, plus it's silky smooth.
We tested a bunch more in our Best Multitools article (one with an axehead...), but the Wave+ is our overall Editor's Pick.
Reloading
Looking to get into reloading? Here's a couple of our favorite case cleaners.
Frankford Armory Tumbler
Mine has been running for years and thousands of rounds. It lives in the garage since it's kind of loud, but it's super effective.
Get the full kit for some sparkling clean brass to reload!
Check otu our Guide to Relaoding Ammo for more essential gear.
Lyman Turbo Sonic Case Cleaner
Ready to upgrade to a sonic cleaner for your brass or gun parts?
My go-to is the Lyman since it is cheaper than the competition, has a larger capacity...but only has a max 8 minutes timer.
Check our our in-depth review in Best Ultrasonic Gun Cleaners.
Funny/Gag Gifts
Tactical Baby Gear
I do have one...AS A GIFT.
Final Thoughts
Ok that does it! Happy shopping!
What would you add onto this list? What are YOU wanting for the holidays? For a bunch more of our favorite tested products...check out our Editor's Picks.
Latest Updates
December 2025: Removed Beretta A300, Tisas 1911, PSA Sabre, WASR 10, Aero Solus, S&W M&P M2.0 Metal, Canik TP9 Elite SC, Canik SFX Rival, Olight Baton 4, ShellShock Switch Glasses, Celestron 52250 Spotting Scope. Added DD 32rnd Mags, DD PCC 916, Andro Corp ACI-15 Bravo, Ruger SFAR AR-10, Mossberg 990 Aftershock, Springfield Echelon 4.0C Comp, Smith & Wesson 632 UC, Vortex Viper, ShellShock Protection Eclipse Glasses, Maven S1.2, Pelican SRVL 1 & SRVL2.
December 2024: Removed Arex Delta M, Springfield Hellion, Benchmade Mini Griptilian, GuardTech cleaning kit, ShootSteel, AXIL ear pro, Wiley X Saber glasses, Fort Knox FTK-PB, Omniblade. Added Aero Precision Solus, Canik Rival SFx, Canik TP9 Elite SC, Lynx Defense EDC Backpack, ShellShock EXP Pro ear pro, ShellShock SWITCH Ballistic Glasses, Steelhead Fast Access Pistol Box.