Gift Guide: ‘A Pirate Looks at 40’

Welcome to the 2026 edition of the RCS Gift Guides.  We always have so much fun with these…

This year’s theme is JIMMY BUFFET.  Why not?  They guy had it figured out, right?  I don’t know anyone that doesn’t smile when a Jimmy Buffet classic graces their speakers.  We all know all the words…and most of us have been to one of his concerts, which are one of the best live music experiences out there…it’s like a giant kareoke bar.  With good hats.

For our first gift guide, we are going with ‘A Pirate Looks at 40’.  We’re using this inspiration to highlight heirloom-level gifts that are appropriate for guys that have a lot (the over-40 set).  These are gifts that the original recipient will be VERY happy to receive, and will look forward to passing these on as time moves on.

So let’s get started, Pirates!:

From top left:

1. Benchmade Station Knife:  Incredible knife that will outlast the rest in your drawer.  Keep it clean, keep it sharp, and send it in every few years for a tune up, and it’ll keep on cutting.
2. Secret Society Timeless Tie:  I used to love ‘borrowing’ my dad’s ties.  I still have some of his originals.  These from Secret Society are as good as it gets.
3. 18K/Sterling Mallard Cuff Links:  Tuxedo accessories can have some character without being too cartoon-y or too ‘peacock’.  These gold and sterling mallards are a nod to one of my favorite hobbies.
4. G-Shock 2500:  I think of this as comparable to the original G-Shock watches that our dads wore 20-30 years ago.
5. Kraig Silversmith Sterling Silver Trout Buckle:  An outstanding gift for the fisherman.  Add this to a leather strap or an exotic belt and it’ll work.  It goes with a lot more than you think.
6. Rolex GMT Master:  The obvious choice.  How many friends do you have that got a watch passed down?  The GMT is a classic choice.  And the intended recipient should enjoy it for years.
7. 50 Cal Brass Bottle Opener:  Such a cool thing to have in your bar.  It’s a lot heavier than you think and is definitly a conversation starter.
8. Winkler X Ball and Buck Highland Hatchet:  Sure, you can go to Ace Hardware and buy a hatchet, but those aren’t built for the long haul.  This one will be with you for years…work at the fire pit, camping trips, etc.  It’ll accumulate stories that will last.
9. Field Traditions Naturally Shed Stag Horn Carving Set:  I love the idea of a really good carving set. It adds a nice touch to those family dinners.  Skip the electric options and go a little more rogue.
10. Grateful Dead Zippo:  I know…a lighter??  But it’s cool.  And handy when you need it.
11. J. Earl & Sons Leather Field Bar:  Top notch.  Heading to a tailgate?  You become the tailgate.  Not only is it functional, but the type of item that is the centerpiece.
12. Laguiole Cigar Cutter:  For those that celebrate cigars, this is about as cool as it gets.
13. Clayton & Crume Leather Weekender Duffle Bag:  A good leather duffle finds more uses that intended.  And it looks great, wears well, and is proud to be carried.  Clayton & Crume know what they are doing…this one is an easy choice.

What did I miss?