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Father’s Day is fast approaching, and it’s time to celebrate your wargamer dad with those Father’s Day gifts that perfectly align with his interests and personality. If your dad is anything like mine: a history buff, retired, enjoys a good drink after a thrilling game, and values historical accuracy, we’ve got you covered! In this blog, we have compiled a list of 18 Father’s Day gift ideas that will put a smile on your dad’s face. From entertaining historical reads to unique drinking accessories, these gifts will cater to his fun-loving nature and love for wargaming. Let’s dive in and find the perfect gift for your wargamer dad!

#1. Historical Board Games

Surprise your dad with a historical board game that combines strategy and fun for his Father’s Day Gifts. Look for titles that feature his favorite historical periods or battles, offering engaging gameplay for him to enjoy. If your dad is interest in World War II then I can’t recommend Undaunted: Normandy enough (though Undaunted: Stalingrad is amazing if your dad is really in for a long campaign.) For something earlier, try 1775: Rebellion, or for something later, try Twilight Struggle. Then block off some time on your calendar to play with your old man.

#2. Historical Fiction Novels

For your dad’s leisurely reading, choose captivating historical fiction novels that bring historical events to life for your Father’s Day Gifts. Look for authors who excel at blending historical accuracy with compelling storytelling. For me it begins and ends with Bernard Cornwell, both his Sharpe’s Rifles series for Napoleonics, but also the Saxon Tales and the Winter King if your want more medieval history.

#3. Whiskey Decanter Set

Raise a toast to your dad’s victories with a patriotic whiskey decanter set. Engrave his name or initials on the decanter and glasses to make it a unique gift he can enjoy while sharing war stories.

#4. War Movies Collection

Collect a selection of classic war movies or documentaries for your dad to enjoy. Choose films that feature his favorite historical conflicts or military campaigns, offering hours of entertainment. Although every dad will be different, mine is partial to The Longest Day, The Dirty Dozen, A Bridge Too Far, and, of course, Band of Brothers. (To read our article about matching movies with wargames, click here.)

#5. Tactical Beer Mug

Combine your dad’s love for wargaming and a good drink with a tactical beer mug. Look for a mug designed like a grenade or with military-themed motifs that add a playful touch to his drinking experience.

#6. History Trivia Game

Challenge your dad’s historical knowledge with a history trivia game. It’s a fun way for him to test his expertise and enjoy some friendly competition with family and friends. The Outset Media American History Game is fun, as is the Placing the Past game.

#7. Veteran Support Donation

In honor of your dad’s service, consider making a donation to a veteran support organization. Choose a reputable charity that provides assistance and resources to veterans in need.

Some great ones are The Wounded Warrior Project, The Semper Fi & America Fund, and Homes For Our Troops.

#8. Customized Military Dog Tags

Personalize a set of military dog tags for your dad as Father’s Day gifts, featuring his name, a meaningful quote, or his favorite wargaming catchphrase. It’s a sentimental gift that showcases his connection to his military past and his love for wargaming.

#9. Historical Puzzle

Keep your dad entertained with a challenging historical jigsaw puzzle. Choose a puzzle that depicts a famous battle or historical scene to stimulate his mind and provide hours of enjoyment. Or try this absolutely bananas 8000 piece historical world map.

#10. Humorous Wargaming T-Shirt

Inject some laughter into your dad’s wardrobe with a humorous wargaming-themed t-shirt. Look for witty slogans, funny gaming references, or parodies that will bring a smile to his face.

#11. Wargaming Dice Set

Upgrade your dad’s dice collection with a set of high-quality wargaming dice as Father’s Day gifts. Look for unique designs featuring historical symbols or military motifs to add a touch of authenticity to his games. For example, these Bolt Action dice for the German player.

#12. Historical Playing Cards

Gift your dad a deck of playing cards with historical artwork. Each card can feature a different historical figure or event, adding an educational and entertaining element to his card games. These American history playing cards fit the bill.

#13. Wargaming Subscription Box

Surprise your dad with a wargaming subscription box tailored to his interests. These boxes often include miniatures, terrain pieces, rulebooks, and other gaming accessories that will enhance his wargaming experience.

#14. Historical Map Prints

Decorate your dad’s gaming room with framed historical map prints. Choose maps depicting significant battles, campaigns, or territories to inspire his games and add a touch of historical ambiance.

#15. Vintage War Memorabilia

If your dad appreciates historical artifacts, consider gifting him vintage war memorabilia. Look for authentic items like military patches, medals, or equipment from his favorite historical period.

#16. Wargaming Terrain Mats

For a dad who values historical accuracy, provide him with wargaming terrain mats that depict specific historical battlefields. These templates will help him recreate accurate landscapes for his wargaming sessions.

#17. Wargaming Strategy Books

Expand your dad’s strategic thinking with a collection of historical strategy books. Look for titles that analyze famous battles, military tactics, or the decision-making processes of historical commanders. For my money, this begins and ends with Henry Hyde: The Wargaming Compendium, Wargaming Campaigns, and Tabletop Battle Tactics

#18. Personalized Engraved Flask

Gift your dad a personalized engraved flask to enjoy his favorite drink while gaming or during outings. Engrave his name, a special message, or a symbol related to his military background to make it truly unique.

This Father’s Day, celebrate your wargamer dad’s love for history, fun, and wargaming with a gift that perfectly suits his interests. From entertaining historical reads to unique drinking accessories, these 21 gift ideas are sure to bring a smile to his face. Show him how much you appreciate his passion for wargaming and his contributions as a history buff and possibly a veteran. Make this Father’s Day one to remember by choosing a gift that honors his interests and brings joy to his wargaming adventures.