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Grandpa Gifts That Are Sure to Please
For Father's Day, Birthdays, Grandparents Day, or Just Because

By Susan Adcox, About.com

Are grandfathers always harder to buy for than grandmothers, or does it just seem that way? Don't strain your brain. Just look over our list of unique grandpa gifts. You're sure to find something grand enough for grandfather, whether for a birthday, Grandparents Day, Father's Day, or just for Being Grandpa.

Almost Golf Balls

golfing grandpasPhoto courtesy of PriceGrabber

If Grandpa's a golfer who has trouble getting to the course, a gift of Almost Golf Balls will enable him to practice in his own yard or a nearby park. Almost Golf Balls are lighter than regular balls so they won't break windows, dent cars, or injure bystanders. They are also perfect for Grandpa to use to give pointers to the junior golfers in the family.

Other Golfing Options

If Grandpa's a golfer but too much of a purist to like the Almost Golf Balls, pick a pack of classic Titleist balls (compare prices). A gift certificate for a day of golf or a lesson with a pro will also rock his world.

Grill Pan & Panini Press

Kitchen gifts for grandpaPhoto Courtesy of PriceGrabber

Don't call this a panini press. Call it a grill pan. Grandfathers love anything with the word "grill" in it. If they happen to discover that it makes wonderful grilled sandwiches in addition to making lovely grilled meats, so much the better.

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Other Grilling Options

If Grandpa is a sports fan as well as a grilling fan, get him a Rico grill cover (compare prices) with the name and logo of his favorite college or pro team. A package of premium steaks will also please the grilling grandpa.

Triple Tube Bird Feeder

Outdoor gifts for grandpaPhoto Courtesy of PriceGrabber

If Grandpa is a nature lover, he'll love a unique bird feeding station. This type of feeder accommodates three kinds of seeds to attract a wider variety of birds. It's a veritable birdseed buffet. Be sure to include a selection of seed so that Grandpa can begin using the feeder right away.

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Other Birding Options

Nature lovers also need bird identification books. Pick the Peterson field guide (compare prices) that suits his geographic area. A good pair of binoculars is always a welcome gift for nature lovers. Grandpa will enjoy having an extra pair to keep by the back door or in the car for those unexpected sightings.

Copper Weather Vane

Unique gifts for grandpaPhoto Courtesy of PriceGrabber

Have you ever noticed that interest in the weather increases as a person ages? Grandfathers who like to know which way the wind is blowing will love these copper weather vanes. Everyone else will just notice their beauty.

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Other Weather-Related Options

For times when the wind really blows, a radio that operates by crank or solar power, as well as AC power or battery, will come in handy. This model by Eton (compare prices) includes other features, such as a flashlight and a emergency cell phone charger. Rain gauges are also endlessly fascinating to grandfathers and come in all varieties, from digital models to old-fashioned low-tech tubes.

Chicken Soup for the Grandparent's Soul

Inspirational gifts for grandpaPhoto Courtesy of PriceGrabber

There's nothing a bibliophile loves more than a book. If Grandpa is a real reader, it may be hard to find a novel that he hasn't read. This book in the Chicken Soup series contains stories that inspire even upon repeated readings. If Grandpa has trouble reading, look for the large print version.

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Other Options for Readers

Lots of grandparents also like audio books because they can enjoy a book without eyestrain. If you buy Grandpa an audio book from Cracker Barrel, he can take it back when he's finished and trade it for another, paying only $3.49 a week. Another item that is handy for aging eyes is a lighted magnifying glass. This Bausch and Lomb magnifier (compare prices) has a generous 2 X 4" viewing area.

Swiss Army Knife Cybertool 29

Gadget gifts for grandpaPhoto courtesy of PriceGrabber

Since today's grandfathers are more likely to be working on a pesky laptop than shaving kindling, this Swiss Army Knife Cybertool is a perfect gift. As the name suggests, it holds 29 tools, including a bit wrench, bit case, hex sockets, Pozidrive bits, Torx bits and various other gadgets. Besides working on electronic gear, it's great for repairing eyeglasses, grandkids' toys and various other household items.

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Other Cutlery Options

Swiss Army knives come in a variety of other styles, including small models that are perfect to slip into a pair of dress pants. If Grandpa's favorite venue is the kitchen, pick out a dandy new chef's knife by Henckels (compare prices) to help him hone his culinary skills.

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