by Mark A. Martir

Picking out a gift for that special someone can sometimes be harder than enjoying your next visit to the dentist and getting your tooth pulled. You may be that someone who really enjoys gift giving. Either way, sometimes finding that perfect gift can still be a challenge.

Now, do you have someone who loves poker and to you the options seem limited? They are plain old cards and chips right? If you are passionate about something, then you understand that there’s plenty of selections if you know what you are looking for and poker is no different. Options are limitless if you search deep and hard enough. Refer to the following poker list essentials and you’ll discover a perfect gift for your favorite poker player!

1. Cool Playing Cards

You can’t play a game of cards without a deck of them, and actually the more of them you have the better! One unique twist on plain old cards are plastic ones. They can withstand the wear and tear of shuffling and have a long shelf life. Be on the look out for cards with vinyl, as they tend to be less durable. Did I mention they can be washed?

Plastic too weird for you? Then consider authentic casino playing decks. The cards are the same card used in actual casinos. These cards are not drilled or straight cut cards. One will feel like a pro when handling them.

2. Poker Chips Sets

There are endless amounts of chip variations but the only ones you need to concern yourself with are clay and clay composites. Everything else is ok but if one wants to be authentic, clay is the way to go.

Many variations such as poker chips with metal inserts are available which can effect prices drastically. Paulson is one of the most well known brands in the industry and would be a good choice. There are also many special chips with branding of your favorite football teams for example.

3. Poker Tabletops

A real serious poker player would have a dedicated poker table, but for most of us a tabletop will do. First thing you have to consider is the amount of players as there variations available for as many as 10 players.

Segmented centers allow for smoother action during play. Plush padding and cup holders are most definitely a welcome addition and worth the expense. Vinyl coated bottoms are the standard when looking for tabletops that won’t damage your regular table.

Folding and storing your tabletop is one of the most important features to consider when choosing one. Felt quality varies greatly so pay attention when buying or else a cheaper one will betray you with signs or wear. Custom printing your own logo would be a nice touch.

4. Poker Carrying Cases

When traveling to their buddies home, a nice case can make a statement. The styles available in wood make them very popular but aluminum cases have a reputation for durability. Options like a telescopic handle for easier mobility make them very desirable.

Look out for the quality of the interior. Padding varies from each manufacturer. The availability of racks and cases within the case are also a compelling reason to consider this, not to mention it keeps the poker area neat.

5. Dealer Button

One would never think a simple thing like a button can make a difference. Having a unique dealer button helps you stand out especially if you have a button with a built-in tournament blind timer! This combines two essential elements of tournament play,the ability to be safely passed as a dealer button while simultaneously keeping the blind times at your fingertips.

6. Card Shufflers

Want to really impress someone? Have a card shuffler and you’ll feel like your in a real casino! Battery operated and constructed with wood or plastic, a shuffler can make your life easier and save one from being accused of cheating. The value of that is priceless.

Varieties come in two and four decks arrangements. The ultimate version is the shoe which boasts a heavy steel roller which has smooth action. You know you’d like one.

Hopefully the above list got you thinking of some interesting combination’s to create that ultimate present! Mix and match the above ideas. I’m sure whatever you ultimately choose for a gift will result in a very happy poker player.

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And now hopefully you’ve gotten some wonderful gift ideas. For even more inspiration look at some of our poker chip sets and various other poker related products for more ideas.