It's so hard to pick the perfect gift. Whether it's for birthdays, the holidays or just because, it can be a minefield. Now we don't know what everyone on your list wants, but we do have a pretty awesome poker gift guide. We've tried our best to include gifts to suit a variety of budgets and a variety of different types of players too. So fingers crossed you'll find something for the card player in your life. And it's a heck of a lot easier than just racking your brains yourself.

Poker books gift guide

Poker players are the kinds of people who can't wait to gain as much knowledge as possible. The more you know, the more you're going to be able to boss the tables next time you hit the felt. That means books are a no-brainer for any type of player. Whether they're just starting out, have been playing for years or love the thrill of the odd hand, we've got a whole host of books to recommend.

Strategy books

We love a good strategy book. And the first one that took the public's imagination in a big way was by Doyle Brunson. With each chapter written by a different poker legend, it's so much fun to get inside their head. And useful too. Super/System was originally published in 1979 and it's still a great read. But in 2004, Super/System 2 was released and features new insights from names like Jennifer Harman and Johnny Chan. For an even more in-depth strategy read, The Theory of Poker is just the ticket. It's main goal is to get the reader to think like a professional. It is dense. It is long. But it is an essential if the person you're buying a gift for is serious about poker.

Exciting reads

Strategy books are good and really useful. But sometimes we want to be swept up in a story. And that's where a book like The Professor, The Banker And The Suicide King comes in. Based on a true story, this is how billionaire Andrew Beal got entangled in some of the biggest games going. It features plenty of familiar faces, think Chip Reese, Phil Ivey, Ted Forrest, and talks about how they react when an outsider muscles in on their turf.

Poker stuff gift guide

If you're buying for someone who loves playing in person and hosting their own games, then there are a few special considerations. Here are a few simple, yet thoughtful, ideas that will brighten up their games.

Chips

You instantly know if you've got a friend who loves chips. When they're playing a game, they're always fiddling with their stacks and doing little tricks. Or maybe they even keep a few on their desk when they're playing online. If that sounds familiar, treat them to something special. From great value composite chips to luxury clay chips, there are plenty to choose from. Learn a little more about what makes poker chips so special before you start your hunt for the perfect stack.

Cards

Just like poker chips, decent quality cards really make a difference. Not sure what to look for? The number one requirement in a card is that they feel great and they're durable. For that reason, a thermoplastic deck reigns supreme. Or else, if your friend is a little flashy (you know the type), splash out on a couple of matching decks of custom cards. Include text with an in joke or really go for it with a foil monogram.

Automatic shuffler

Now this one can be a gift for you as much as anyone else. If you've got a friend who always hosts home games, but is driven mad by how slow it is to set up a deal, cut the crap and get an automatic card shuffler. It'll make everyone's life a little easier. No more tedious washes for you and your friends!

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