Gifts for mankind Holiday suggestions for the guys on your list who know exactly what they want

If only all guys were like ShopCat at the holidays. Give him some Whisker Lickins and a bag of catnip, and he’s good to go.

Thing is, when it comes to gifts, guys of the nonfeline variety are a bit particular. They don’t just want, say, a reciprocating saw. It’s an 18-volt DeWalt reciprocating saw with an extra battery. It’s not just a thermometer. It’s a wireless indoor-outdoor thermometer from L.L. Bean with a built in barometer and 24-hour forecast.

And though he hasn’t said anything, I get the sense that even ShopCat prefers Dr. Pussum’s organic catnip to the stuff from the grocery store.

At least they’re specific. All you have to do is ask, and most guys will be able to tell you exactly what they want. If they don’t, I’ve come up with a few (almost) fail-safe ideas to help you out.

Just make sure you get a gift receipt, just in case.

Timbuk2 Bag in a Box, $99.95, Epic Sports, Bangor

Perfect for the high school- and college-age set, this online gift card lets your guy design his own hip, functional messenger bag online, which is shipped to him, usually within a week.

Schott peacoat, $150, Justice Clothing, Bangor, www.justiceclothing.com

If you’re guy is wild about clothing made in the U.S.A., this classic peacoat is just the thing. Stylish, toasty, and – best of all – made in a union shop in New Jersey (read sweatshop-free), this will warm his heart and his body.

Cordless lithium-ion power tools by Makita and Milwaukee, $629-$729, The Home Depot

Remember the “Home Improvement” mantra, “more power”? That’s what your guy gets with these 18-volt and 28-volt kits. The advantage of lithium ion batteries is consistent power through the life of the battery. It’s an investment, to be sure, but just imagine how excited he’ll be to tackle your “honey-do” list.

Marmot layering shirt, $44.95, Epic Sports, Bangor

Sure it’s warm, and stylish. But what makes this jersey so cool is the anti-microbial silver fiber woven into the fabric. This means outdoor enthusiasts can snowshoe and ski to their hearts’ content without that “locker room” aroma. And it can be a real boon to college students who spent the last of their laundry money on pizza.

Journal, $12, Metropolitan Soul, Bangor

Who says guys have to like tools and camping? Let your guy know you like him just fine, even if he doesn’t want to watch the Sox or fix your car.

Leather and metal necklaces, $10-$12, Metropolitan Soul, Bangor

Lately, a lot of shoppers have asked me where they can find necklaces for men that aren’t gold chains. Here are two that are decidedly unfeminine, and affordable, to boot.

University of Maine athletic tickets, prices vary, www.goblackbears.com or 581-BEAR

Who doesn’t love UMaine athletics? Besides, tickets are always the right fit. Take him to Pat’s beforehand and make an evening of it.

U.F.O. light, $12.99, Epic Sports, Bangor

Light up his life, or at least his keychain, with this LED flashlight. Sleek and chic, with a bit of X-Files mystique.

Squirrel T-shirt, $22, Ferdinand, Portland, 761-2151

A little bit rock ‘n roll, a little bit tongue in cheek, this thermal T-shirt just oozes West-coast cool. Check out Diane Topfer’s other effortlessly fashionable designs online at www.ferdinandhomestore.com

Swix ski cap, $25, Epic Sports, Bangor

So he’s a bit hot-headed. Keep him that way with this merino wool cap. He’ll love it even if he doesn’t ski.

ShopGirl would love to hear from you! Send questions, comments or suggestions by e-mail to: kandresen@bangordailynews.net, by U.S. mail to: Kristen Andresen, P.O. Box 1329, Bangor, ME 04402-1329, or by fax to: 941-9476. Tune in to ShopGirl at 5 p.m. Fridays on WLBZ-2.