So I guess it’s possible to get bored while drinking?  Check out these coasters with bar games built right in.  This set of 30 different puzzles, games, quizzes and more should keep all entertained, even if the atmosphere isn’t.  The Bar Game Drink Coasters are great for a night on the town, or a night at home.

So it doesn’t look like Geekologie or Engadget like the idea of a wooden DIY keyboard. Personally, I think the idea is kind of intriguing. But lets look at it from our Rules For Giving Gifts To Men angle.

Rule #6 states that a gift should challenge him. By their very nature, do-it-yourself projects get his mind working and his juices flowing. Projects such as this, easy or difficult, give him the opportunity to prove his worth and demonstrate his abilities.

Rule # 8 suggests to give manly things. Something, anything, made out of wood will always be a pre-approved great gift for men. It’s just one of those natural, primitive elements that is intrinsically male. Many of man’s earliest tools were made of wood; why not his latest tool?

So by rule, any item that is covered by more than one rule has a good chance of being a great gift for men, and the wooden keyboard qualifies. That being said, for my money, I’d still prefer the steampunk keyboard.

Well, it must be October. I’ve noticed for the last week that my mailbox has gradually gotten fuller and fuller. It started out gradual; one here one there. But one day last week I counted six catalogs in the mail on the same day. Now don’t get me wrong, I love it. For a guy that writes a shopping blog, it’s the best time of the year.

It got me curious though. With the internet, and all it has to offer, do people still shop from catalogs? Do you enjoy going through the catalogs in the mail as much as I? Or do they just get thrown away? Let me know what you think.

Anyway, get ready for more great gift ideas from The Men’s Gift Guide. We are starting to hit the biggest gift giving time of the year!

When I was in elementary school, we would take a trip to the planetarium every school year. This was before the age of school budget cuts. I’m sure this kind of thing doesn’t happen anymore. Anyway, we would go and the session would start out with some classroom time. The teacher was the same guy, year after year. I really looked forward to these field trips and they were lots of fun. So after the classroom, we’d go into the planetarium for the presentation, and then return to the classroom for the rest of the day.

The planetarium was down the hall from the classroom. When we left the planetarium, we would sprint down the hall back to the classroom. The thing was, the teacher was still in the room when we left the planetarium, but always was already in the classroom after we ran 100 feet down the hall. Whoa. It was like magic every time. The guy didn’t have more than five seconds before we were there, but he never failed. He was in the room, standing at the desk, like he’d been there the whole time. It was amazing.

Every year, he’d ask one kid to guess how he got there so fast. And each year, the kid he called on would guess the door that was behind the desk at the front of the room. Well that must have just been a storage room because that wasn’t it. So each and every year, some kid would guess the same door, and every year, it still wasn’t the right answer. He would always tell us that he’d give us the correct answer when we were in the fifth grade (our last year of elementary school).

Finally in fifth grade it was time to go and I couldn’t wait to get the answer (yeah, didn’t have a lot to look forward to in those years). Remember, I had sat through four years of some idiot kid guessing the same thing year after year. The day arrived and the trip was canceled because the guy was sick. It was rescheduled, but we never went because, rest his soul, the man died.

I never found out how he got to the classroom so quickly. This was probably twenty years ago and it still drives me crazy to this day.

My point in telling you this is to reiterate gifts for men rules # 3 and 7. If your man relays to you some sad story such as this, use it to your advantage. Plan a trip to the planetarium so he can relive those memories of youth. It’s often very interesting where men hide their gift idea hints. You’ve just got to be on the lookout.

I read an interesting post by Peter Crump on his blog, Find That Gift For Him, about whether or not a man should wear a wedding ring. You can check out the post here. He explains the history of men’s wedding rings, and makes some great points. Some of which I agree with, and of course, some of which I don’t. Don’t you just love the blog-o-sphere as a place to get differing opinions? Here is my take.

Crump explains that men wearing a wedding ring really only started during WWII as soldiers starting wearing them overseas as a symbol of their marital status. At the time, this was a voluntary act, and Crump argues that “despite the fact that the wearing of a mans wedding band is more common now, I think it is still true to say that it is considered optional.” Well I don’t know about you, but try going to my wife and asking her if my wedding ring is “optional” and I’m sure you’ll get a strong opinion. Which is interesting considering my ring almost never comes off unless I need to clean it, yet she usually removes hers the second she comes in the house.

Crump then goes on to say that for many men, it’s the first jewelry they may have ever owned so they are uncomfortable with it. Agreed, but hopefully it’s also the first wife he’s ever had (and last?) so everything has a break-in period.

He also points out that some men’s jobs or hobbies do not allow for the wearing of jewelry for safety or legal reasons. No argument there.

Peter’s main point of the post, is that the wearing, or not wearing, of a wedding ring should be entirely up the couple and shouldn’t be the subject of outside opinion. I couldn’t agree more.

My point here, and what I really want to add to this conversation, is that some kind of significant gift should be exchanged on the wedding day. So he’s not up for rings, so what, get him something else that works for the two of you. There are any number of pieces of jewelry that can be special. For example, when my grandmother was dying 15 years or so ago, she knew that my grandfather would end up married again. Obviously, she knew that he would then wear a new wedding ring. So she bought him a gold necklace that he wore as a symbol of her till the day he died. And yes, that necklace stayed on even during other relationships and marriages. The point is that another gift of significance can work, instead of a ring. Incidentally, I now own the original wedding ring that my wife had resized for me. It’s a really nice thing to have and I use it as an optional secondary wedding ring.

Optional secondary ring? Heck yeah. Variety is a good thing. A couple years ago, I was really giving my wife a hard time about never wearing many of the other rings I’ve given her over the years. She finally told me that she didn’t really want to wear multiple rings, being a school teacher and working with her hands all day, and she felt bad not wearing her actual wedding ring. So I told her that she was free to wear any ring she wanted, so long as she had something on her finger that I had given her. I’m not concerned about which ring she wears, so long as she wears one. Frankly, I’m much happier that the other pieces I’ve given her are getting some use now.

Since we’re on the subject of men’s jewelry, I’m so pleased to say that men’s jewelry has been coming on strong lately. Many different things have become fashionable again. So, I am going to officially announce that next week will be Men’s Jewelry Week at The Men’s Gift Guide. Each day, I’ll focus on a different kind of men’s jewelry and give you some of my top picks for each one. You may be surprised of some of the cool stuff out there for him right now. If you are going to make a jewelry purchase for the holidays, now would be the perfect time to get that done.

So thanks to Peter Crump, at Find That Gift For Him, for bringing up this topic. If you get a chance to check out his site, he’s got some great ideas on a variety of men’s topics.

I’m not so sure how I feel about this one. On one hand, there haven’t been many advances in pipe smoking in the past million years. On the other hand, anything that has to reiterate over and over that it is a tobacco pipe probably isn’t. So, in the spirit of legality, I’m going to assume that it is good for tobacco, only.

The Solopipe is a pipe, and lighter in one. One motion ignites a butane flame right next to the bowl. The bowl has a sliding cover so you can pack it with your favorite blend before leaving home. Made of stainless steel and the butane is refillable.

This very well may be the most important post on this site; past or future. While many sites out there, including this one, strive to give creative and constructive gift ideas, it all really boils down to the individual’s taste. Knowing that I can not be everything to everyone, I put together an advice piece to assist every person that is having trouble finding a gift for a hard-to-buy-for man. Therefore, I’m pleased to present to you The Men’s Gift Guide Golden Rules.

What this is and what it is not

This is not a specific list. In fact, not one product is mentioned. However, this is meant to be a general list of guidelines to assist in the men’s gift-giving world. It gives insight to the man’s psyche and should help you determine if what you are thinking about giving him will be a good fit.

Bottom line: if you are considering a specific gift for him, but aren’t sure, check these rules. If you can apply any one rule, it may be a good choice. More than one; you have a good chance of that being a great gift.

Rule 1: Don’t Believe Him

Absolutely first and foremost; never ever believe him when he says that he doesn’t want anything, has everything he needs, or he doesn’t care. Men look forward to the excitement and anticipation of getting gifts just as much as anyone else. The true answer to the question, “what do you want for…” is more likely, “I don’t know, I can’t think of anything, or it’s silly and I don’t want to tell you.” Men are supposed to be providers of the family and sometimes have a hard time saying “buy this for me.” All this means that it’s going to take a little more detective work for you. But, that’s what the rest of this article is about. One last note, don’t nag him about it. Constant pressure to tell you what he wants will only make his brain shut down further.

Rule 2: Something to Play With

Deep down, men are just big kids. They like to fix, tinker, assemble, and figure out. Some of the most miserable holidays I can remember have been when I just got clothes. I always need something to play with that day. There are numerous companies out there that have made it big just by selling “big boy’s toys.” What else could explain the continued popularity of high end video game systems and high stakes poker? While some women enjoy these things also, any marketer will tell you that men continue to be the driving force behind many gadget, gaming, and “stuff to play with” industries. Chances are he works hard, day in and day out. So give him something to play with. It just may be the perfect gift.

Rule 3: Appeal to His Past

Have you ever heard him say, “I used to have one of these when I was a kid?” Does he play with the kids toys more than the kids do? My guess is yes to both. Remember, he’s just a big kid at heart (see Rule 2). Men love to remember the carefree days when they had less responsibility and could just do what they wanted. So get on an auction site and find that vintage lunch box or action hero that he used to play with. Let him share with his kids something he played with when he was a kid.

Rule 4: Make him say wow and give him something to show off.

Originally, these were going to be two separate rules. But the more I thought about it, the more I realized that making him say “wow” or “neat” is the same as making his friends say “wow” or “neat.” Gifts don’t always have to be practical or needed. Men simply like “cool stuff.” Then they like to show other men their “cool stuff”. Why do you think that new cars and lawn mowers are like man magnets? Let him be the envy of his friends by “wow-ing” them all with your super cool gift.

Rule 5: Give him stuff for his space

Every man needs a space in the house that is his, be it an office, garage, game room, basement, wherever. This is a room where he can decorate any way he wants, keep anything he wants in it. I have stuff from my favorite sports team, a fish tank, gumball machine, and an antique cash register in mine. So, if your man doesn’t have a space like this, GIVE HIM ONE. Then give him stuff he likes to go in the room. Remember you can still have control over the whole rest of the house.

Rule 6: Challenge Him

Men love a challenge. We have an inherent need to prove we are the biggest, the strongest, the smartest, the fastest, and the best darn Barbie house put-together-er on the block. So give us something to test our brains and our skills. Give us something to assemble, or solve. Then, ooh and aah when we come and show you our accomplishment.

Rule 7: Take Him Somewhere

This needs to be somewhere that’s just for him; his favorite restaurant, sporting event, or monster-truck rally. Take him on that trip that he’s always wanted, but never found the time for. He’ll know that it isn’t somewhere you really wanted to go and he’ll appreciate what you’ve done for him.

Rule 8: Give Manly Things

Deep inside, we’re all still men. And eons of history can’t really change who we are at our core. Give him something that reminds him of being a man. Words like wood, leather, rustic, and vintage come to mind. Perhaps classic, gallant, or daring. What images come to mind when you read these words? Now associate it with your man, and get crackin’.

Rule 9: Consider doing, rather than giving

Not all gifts are material things. And, yes, maybe he really doesn’t need anything. Well a gesture just for him might be the ticket. I once read an article about a guy who was just head-over-heels for his girlfriend because she got him a carwash and detail for his birthday. He never would have gotten it for himself, but loved that she did it for him. I also knew a lady who invited all his friends over for a poker game, and she served food, beer, and cigars all night. Easy, simple things that’ll show him more than you’ll ever know.

Rule 10: If you truly don’t know what you’re doing, then don’t

As mentioned in Rule 1, men may very well have a specific thing in mind, but are just too embarrassed or shy to tell you what it is. Going out and getting something totally wrong may disappoint both of you, as men tend to be very specific about what they want (“this is what I wanted; I just wanted the other model”). While it is the thought that counts, it may be even better to say “I know you wanted that video game, but I wasn’t sure which one. Let’s go and buy it together.” This is also the perfect time to use the ace up your sleeve, the store gift card. However, make sure it is to a specific store. That way he’s got to use it for his gift, and it can’t be squandered away for groceries and gasoline.

What else?

What did I miss? What can you add? Which rule is the most important? Be sure to post your thoughts so we can continue to improve this list.

My good friend Jacob wrote the following piece about cheap poker chips. Poker chips are like anything else; you get what you pay for. I think his points hold true for most things you purchase. Getting good, quality products is what most men will appreciate. If you can only do it half way, maybe you shouldn’t at all, or at least wait until you can get the good stuff.

If you’re looking for an inexpensive set of poker chips, I’ve got a suggestion. Use pennies. Not penny poker, rather just use pennies as markers, or chips. They can represent quarters or dollars or five-dollar bills, depending on your stakes. That’s what we did when we were in high school. They’ve got a lot going for them. They’re cost effective. Unlike quarters, they’re accessible as there is usually an old jar full of them just lying around. And, they’re durable – just try to break one. The only downside is the vulnerability to the occasional unscrupulous buddy sneaking a few into a game, but those types tend to stick out and they usually aren’t invited back.

Pennies are great for kids. In fact, we believe they’ve got a lot more style than cheap poker chips. When you show up for a game and you find out they are using pennies as markers for dollars, you get the sense this is a no-nonsense game. There’s no pretension going on here. This is an understated, honest crowd. In this game, it’s all about the cards. Idiots are tolerated, so long as they bring cash, lose it quickly, and move on.

Poker games with cheap poker chips are often times a whole different story. When you show up for a game and the host brings out a 1970s-style carousel of plastic chips, cardboard-like chips, or knockoff clay chips, you immediately get the sense you’re in for a long night. If you look around, there are good odds you’ll see wood paneling on the walls. Saving a few bucks is one thing, but please pick your battles. Just use pennies. Cheap poker chips are a lot like a cheap suit. Either get a nice suit, or go casual. Everybody can respect the fact that casual is casual. You’re not pretending to be something you’re not. You can’t say the same for a cheap suit. Cheap poker chips are no different.

Poker is a classic game with hundreds of years of rich history behind it. Those who know and appreciated the game know it’s about tradition. They know it’s about camaraderie. They know it’s about excitement. And they know it’s about excellence. It can be a competitive battle of wits among formidable opponents. It can be an intoxicating mix of good friends, good drinks, and fine cigars. Real poker players know the money game is just a scoring system that keeps everybody honest. Real players know it doesn’t matter whether you play for dimes and nickels or for twenty-dollar bills. It’s all about the action.

Poker is most definitely not about a bunch of hacks that barely know the rules, sitting around a wood paneled room playing with imitation plastic chips. It’s not about 2s, 3s, and 9s being wild. It’s not about getting comfortable with the idea that it’s ok to lose your money time and time again, and that you’re just paying for the entertainment value. And it’s not about showing up in your cheap suit.

As far as the chips are concerned, they can either add to the tradition and excellence of the game, or detract from it. If you want to save some coin, use pennies. If you want to add a little style to your game, invest in a set of nice chips. Whichever path you choose, get comfortable with it because poker chips last a lifetime, even the cheap ones.

Click here to see some good quality chips you can be proud of.

OK, catchy title for what we saw as the top 5 gifts for men of the 2006 holiday season. We make it no secret that we are closely affiliated with The Round Table - Unique Gifts For The Hard-To-Buy-For Man, so these top gifts come from sales from that store.

1. Deluxe Sudoku Puzzle Board
Sudoku hit us all by storm and it has proved to be an addicting game to rival the crossword puzzle. I personally have always wanted to be smart enough to do a crossword, but I am not afraid to admit, that I have never even come close to completing one, and not for lack of trying. Sudoku is the game that anyone can play, just line up the numbers in the correct block. Takes time and practice, but is a really good puzzle to keep him busy. Lots of guys will now be able to work their puzzle in real time, on the table and not have to worry about erasing mistakes. The Deluxe Sudoku Puzzle Board was our most popular single item this holiday season.

2. Pocket Watches and Cuff Links
There seems to be a revival brewing of the modern gentleman. For the past several years, it has finally become cool again for him to be decorated and refined. This year’s sales of pocket watches and cuff links shows this trend is getting ever stronger. Admittedly, we have a small selection of these items, so I can only imagine what more heavy sellers of these items must have experienced. Our most popular item was the Gametime Team Pocket Watch, available in about any team or college you can imagine. While we have an even more limited selection of cuff links, many of you gentlemen will have a nice set under the tree as well.

3. Skill Stop Slot Machine
With the popularity gaming and gambling still on the rise, we’ve been looking for the next big thing. Frankly, I would’ve thought the poker thing would have died down by now, but what do I know. These Skill Stop Slot Machines are authentic machines that are used in international casinos. I guess to deter cheating, they have to be switched out all the time. So these machines could have been used for as little as one month, to as most 2 years. So they are practically brand new. You use tokens and manually stop each reel by pushing the corresponding button. We literally couldn’t get enough of the Welcome To Las Vegas Skill Stop Machine, shown. We had to turn down orders.

4. Oxford Round Leather Flask with Shot
Personalized gifts are always popular. There is something to be said for giving someone a gift in the first place. It’s always the thought that counts, but when you go the extra mile to give a gift with their initials, name, or some other personalization, it really shows. In my humble opinion, this is one of the nicest new flask designs I’ve seen in quite some time. Personalized with a single initial, the center section pops out to be used as a shot glass. Holds 6 oz of his “favorite beverage”. We expect the Oxford Round Leather Flask to be a hot item again once wedding season comes.

5. NFL Emblem Money Clip
Pro football continues to be hugely popular in almost everything we sell. The hottest this year was the NFL Emblem Money Clip. Every team is available, and you can personalize (see above) with two lines of text. Use his name and the date, or get creative. “Hail to the Redskins”, “Pittsburgh Steelers - Superbowl Champs”, etc.