LBG Renewal Don't forget that LBG memberships expire in December, and a renewed 1999 membership card would fit nicely tucked under a bow or slipped into a stocking. Other items in this price range need no explanation and are easy to shop for because they require no homebrewing expertise. It's hard to make a bad purchase based on what's around the hombrewery. Equipment prices vary greatly, but it should be possible to find even good-quality pieces in this price range. Chances are also good that these are some items your brewing friend skimped on to get started brewing, especially if he started brewing from a kit.
Every brewer needs a hydrometer to check the beer throughout the brewing process.
This is also an item that is frequently broken, so spares are nice to have. Be sure to get one designed and labeled for brewing. Homebrew shops should carry several kinds. If your homebrewing buddy uses kegs it should be obvious, because they're always hauling heavy metal cylinders around. What may not be obvious is the type of keg they use.