OUTDOORS We are wrapping up the year and that means it is time for the 2024 Christmas Wish List! For the last 26 years, this annual column has become very popular with many readers. It's also unique because it is the only column of the year where I provide the same information for all the publications I work with. Everyone who reads my columns should know about these items! As I've explained in the past, this is a list of some of the best items that I have had the opportunity to field test over the last year.

Each item has survived the abuse of my hunting, fishing or camping trips. I admit, I'm tough on equipment! As my Dad, the Ol' Marine would say, "Boy, you could tear up a crowbar in a sand pile!" The very fact that a product can survive a few of trips with me says something. If a product can endure my use in the field, most people can get years of service out of it! Most importantly, before I recommend that you spend any of your hard-earned money on a product, particularly in today's economy, I want to make sure it works the way it is supposed to and that it can endure the rigors of the outdoors.

There is no particular order to the list. All these items are worth a look: Ozark Trail 7-IN-1 Knife — This knife has a single locking blade, flashlight, fire starter, glass breaker, small rope/seatbelt cutter, bottle opener, belt clip and lanyard so you don't lose it. It is a lot of tool for the money.

It is made by Ozark Trail. You can find this at Walmart for about $10. Ozar.