Buy batteries directly from Surefire or Arc and they are a $1 a piece. It just takes planning to order them in advance and replenish your stock when low. Don't pull my boss who walked into Radio Shack and purchased two CR123s for $20 (but I guess he can afford it).

I didn't get any gifts this year but one: my old man gave me a Swiss Army neck/belt pouch for traveling which is kind of neat.

I gave away survival stuff this season. All my friends got a thermo Cabellas steel cups, Inova X1 lights, and some got SOG knives other Leatherman Squirts. My kayaking buddy got Inova 24/7 light. I went all out this Xmas but I guess I worry about my friends out there since most of spend a lot of times outside (plus I'm sick of lending them my stuff).

Matt