2017 RCS Gift Guide #2: Mountain Weekend

Moving on to our second gift guide of the year, we celebrate Mountain Weekend.  This annual colder weather party was essentially doing exactly what we did in the Fraternity House, but at a higher elevation.  We never got the deposit back.  Ever.

This gift guide is for the man who enjoys the outdoors, and does so in style.  He’s the guy who has all the basics, but wouldn’t mind adding some pieces to an already stocked closet.  So without further delay, here we go:

From top left:

1. La Matera Alejandro Belt:  A leather belt with just the right amount of flare.  Made for the guy who doesn’t mind breaking a sweat, this polo belt will become his de-facto daily wearer.
2. Barbour Lowerdale Gillet Vest:  The vest to replace all other vests.  Two big front pockets, not a lot going on around the collar, and just the right shade of green.  Just right.
3. Filson Ranger Backpack:  An adult backpack that actually works.  Big enough for a weekender, but cool enough so you don’t look like you are waiting for the bus.  And it’s Filson, so you know what to expect.
4. Williams Knife Co. Savannah Knife:  Pocket knives are great, but a fixed blade is a great tool on a hunt.  Not only that, but these Williams knives become an heirloom that can be passed on.
5. Onward Reserve Brookwood Flannel Shirt:  A good flannel shirt is always a go-to, and these from Onward hit all the right notes: good fit, not too heavy, and refined plaids.  Good for the field, and good for the dinner table.
6. King Ranch Wildlife Quail Money Clip:  Because folded money clipped in style brings it up a notch…don’t forget to tip your guide and/or bartender.
7. Beretta Silver Pigeon 28 Gauge Shotgun:  Since he already has a 20 ga and a 12 ga, see if he can hit those bob whites with a 28.  Also, a 28 is a great gun to teach your offspring (or bride) how to shoot.
8. Taylor Stitch Project Jacket:  My favorite find this year.  A super sharp unlined waxed jacket that is a great outer layer over a flannel or a sweater.  The heavy canvas will take a beating, and get better with age.  A great look with jeans and boots.
9. Ball and Buck Hunter’s Shirt:  The top-of-the-line hunting shirts, in the top shelf camo.  Ball and Buck’s version 2.0 of these shirts features some great details that give them a better fit when shooting.
10. Edgevale Cast Iron Pants:  Outstanding outdoor-esque pants that are made for this guy.  They have a more fitted cut which works not only with boots, but with loafers.  The heavy canvas breaks in like jeans, and the new darker tan is perfect for this time of year.
11. Over Under Large Shell Pouch:  Over Under has made huge strides over the last couple years.  Their whole catalog is excellent, and their shell pouches lead the pack.  The old duck hunt camo is a nice touch.
12. Seiko Prospex SRPB97 Dive Watch:  The best value proposition when it comes to wrist watches.  Seiko is tried and true, and the new orange Prospex is handsome for any man, but the blaze orange keeps the outdoorsman’s mind right.
13. Orvis Gamebird Roly Poly Glasses:  Because a good post-hunt celebration calls for the right kind of glasses.
14. King Ranch Needlepoint Quail Belt:  The custom needlepoint belts have a cult following, and the find folks at King Ranch came out swinging with this blaze orange belt with bob white quail.  Talk about a statement piece!
15. Pelican Traveler Thermos:  Immediate respect for anyone that shows up with a Pelican.  Even if it’s a thermos.
16. Russell Moccasin Plantation Series Zephyr Boots:  These work in the field, or out around town.  The green canvas lightens them up so you can tailgate all day, go to the game, and still hit the town and not feel like you’ve been dragging around leg weights.