Home & Gifts
10. Flags of Valor
Website: https://www.flagsofvalor.com
Founded by Army veteran Brian Steorts, Flags of Valor transforms reclaimed American wood into handcrafted U.S. flags, challenge coin displays and patriotic home décor.
Each piece is made in the United States and built with craftsmanship that reflects military values of precision and attention to detail. The company also employs veterans and actively supports organizations serving the military community.
Whether you’re decorating your home, office or workshop, Flags of Valor creates heirloom-quality pieces designed to last for generations.
Best for this summer: Wooden American flags, challenge coin displays and retirement gifts.
11. Bottle Breacher
Website: https://bottlebreacher.com
Bottle Breacher began with a simple idea from former Navy SEAL Eli Crane: turn once-fired .50-caliber ammunition into handcrafted bottle openers.
What started as a garage business quickly became one of the country’s most recognizable veteran-owned gift brands. Today, Bottle Breacher offers personalized bottle openers, drinkware, bar accessories and gift sets that are assembled by veterans in Arizona.
It’s a fun conversation piece with a story behind every product.
Best for this summer: Personalized bottle openers, grilling accessories and Father’s Day gifts.
Bags, Travel & Leather Goods
12. Sword & Plough
Website: https://www.swordandplough.com
Co-founded by Army veteran Emily Núñez Cavness, Sword & Plough turns surplus military materials into stylish bags, backpacks and accessories.
Instead of allowing military canvas and fabric to go unused, the company repurposes these durable materials into modern products while creating jobs for veterans throughout its supply chain.
The result is gear that’s both environmentally responsible and uniquely American.
Best for this summer: Weekender bags, backpacks and travel accessories.
13. Red Oxx
Website: https://www.redoxx.com
If your idea of a great summer includes road trips, camping or airline travel, Red Oxx deserves a look.
Founded by veteran Jim Markel, the Montana-based company builds premium luggage, duffel bags and travel gear designed to withstand years of hard use. Every product is made in the USA and backed by a legendary lifetime warranty.
Many travelers buy one Red Oxx bag and never need another.
Best for this summer: Carry-on duffels, travel organizers and adventure-ready luggage.
14. Savoy Leather
Website: https://savoyleather.com
Savoy Leather combines old-world craftsmanship with military precision.
Founded by Marine Corps veteran Chris Hughes, the company handcrafts premium leather wallets, belts, journals and accessories using full-grain leather sourced for durability and timeless style.
Rather than mass-producing products, Savoy Leather focuses on quality, creating heirloom pieces that improve with age and become more distinctive over time.
Best for this summer: Leather wallets, belts and travel journals.
Fitness & Outdoor Living
15. Born Primitive
Website: https://bornprimitive.com
Founded by former Army officer Bear Handlon, Born Primitive has become one of the fastest-growing fitness apparel companies in the military and first responder communities.
Originally focused on CrossFit athletes, the brand now produces athletic apparel, casual clothing and swimwear designed for movement, durability and comfort. The company also donates to veteran organizations and regularly highlights service members and military spouses through its ambassador programs.
Whether you’re training for a race or simply staying active this summer, Born Primitive has apparel built to perform.
Best for this summer: Performance shorts, athletic shirts, swimsuits and training gear.
16. Black Beard Fire Starter
Website: https://blackbeardfire.com
Camping season and backyard fire pits are even better with Black Beard Fire Starter.
Founded by Army veteran Chris Mayberry, the company developed waterproof, wind-resistant fire starters that make building a fire quick and frustration-free. Whether you’re camping, hunting, fishing or simply enjoying an evening around the backyard fire pit, these compact kits take the guesswork out of getting a fire going.
It’s one of those products you don’t realize you need until you’ve used it once.
Best for this summer: Fire starter kits for camping, hiking and emergency preparedness.
American-Made Gear
17. Krate Tactical
Website: https://kratetactical.com
Krate Tactical was founded by veterans who wanted to create a one-stop destination for high-quality everyday carry (EDC), survival and outdoor gear.
The company offers knives, flashlights, backpacks, first aid kits, emergency supplies and tactical equipment selected for reliability and real-world use—not gimmicks. Many products come from American manufacturers and companies with strong military ties.
Whether you’re preparing for a camping trip, assembling an emergency kit or upgrading your everyday carry gear, Krate Tactical offers practical equipment built to last.
Best for this summer: Emergency kits, camping gear, flashlights and outdoor essentials.
More Veteran-Owned Brands to Discover
18. Oscar Mike
Website: https://www.oscarmike.org
More than just an apparel brand, Oscar Mike is a veteran-founded nonprofit dedicated to helping injured veterans stay active and engaged after service. Every purchase of Oscar Mike shirts, hats and gear helps fund adaptive sports programs, outdoor adventures and wellness opportunities for wounded veterans across the country.
The name “Oscar Mike” is military radio slang for “On the Move,” and that’s exactly the organization’s mission—keeping veterans moving forward.
Best for this summer: Performance T-shirts, hats and apparel that support a meaningful cause.
19. Article 15 Clothing
Website: https://article15.com
Founded by a group of Army veterans, including several members of the wildly popular VetTV team, Article 15 Clothing mixes military humor with comfortable, high-quality apparel.
The company doesn’t take itself too seriously, but it’s serious about supporting veterans through employment and charitable initiatives. If you’ve spent time in uniform, chances are you’ll recognize a few inside jokes on their shirts.
Best for this summer: Graphic T-shirts, casual wear and patriotic accessories.
20. Mutt’s Sauce
Website: https://muttssauce.com
Marine Corps veteran Dan Brown turned a family barbecue recipe into Mutt’s Sauce, a growing brand known for its versatile barbecue sauces and marinades.
Whether you’re grilling burgers, smoking ribs or cooking chicken on the patio this summer, Mutt’s Sauce adds bold flavor without overpowering the food. The company remains proudly veteran-owned and family-operated.
Best for this summer: Original barbecue sauce, spicy varieties and grilling gift packs.
21. Live Bearded
Website: https://livebearded.com
Co-founded by Army veteran Spencer Hodnett, Live Bearded has become one of the country’s most respected beard care companies.
Its premium beard oils, washes, balms and grooming kits are made with quality ingredients and backed by outstanding customer service. While the products are designed for bearded men, the company’s message of brotherhood, leadership and personal growth resonates far beyond grooming.
Best for this summer: Beard oil, beard wash and complete grooming kits.
22. Whiskey Morning Coffee
Website: https://whiskeymorningcoffee.com
Whiskey Morning Coffee is a veteran-owned specialty coffee company dedicated to roasting small batches of premium beans with bold flavor and military-inspired branding.
Whether you’re watching the sunrise from a campsite or fueling up before work, the company’s blends are crafted for coffee lovers who appreciate quality without unnecessary gimmicks.
Best for this summer: Whole bean coffee, cold brew blends and subscription boxes.
Organizations Supporting Veteran Entrepreneurs
23. Bunker Labs
Website: https://bunkerlabs.org
Not every veteran-owned organization sells products.
Bunker Labs is a national nonprofit that helps veterans and military spouses launch and grow successful businesses through mentorship, networking and educational programming.
If you’re considering starting your own company, Bunker Labs offers one of the strongest entrepreneurial communities available to veterans. Supporting the organization—whether through donations, partnerships or participation—helps the next generation of veteran founders succeed.
Best for this summer: Explore entrepreneurship programs and discover veteran-owned startups.
24. Warrior Rising
Website: https://www.warriorrising.org
Warrior Rising empowers veterans and their immediate family members by providing business training, mentorship and grants to aspiring entrepreneurs.
Since its founding, the organization has helped launch hundreds of veteran-owned businesses across the country. Many successful brands got their start with guidance and support from Warrior Rising.
If you’re passionate about shopping veteran-owned, Warrior Rising is also a great place to discover new businesses before they become household names.
Best for this summer: Discover emerging veteran-owned businesses and support new entrepreneurs.
Outdoor Living
25. Cordova Outdoors
Website: https://cordovaoutdoors.com
Founded by Army veteran Dan Sullivan, Cordova Outdoors manufactures premium coolers, drinkware and outdoor gear built for serious adventure.
Designed for anglers, campers, hunters and families spending weekends on the water, Cordova products are made in the USA and engineered to handle years of rugged use. Their coolers offer premium performance while supporting American manufacturing and veteran entrepreneurship.
Whether you’re heading to the beach, the lake or the campground, Cordova makes equipment that’s ready for the journey.
Best for this summer: Rotomolded coolers, insulated drinkware and outdoor accessories.
Why Supporting Veteran-Owned Brands Matters
Every purchase tells a story.
When you buy from a veteran-owned business, you’re supporting someone who has already demonstrated leadership, resilience and a commitment to serving others. Many veteran entrepreneurs continue that service by hiring fellow veterans, supporting military nonprofits, manufacturing products in the United States and giving back to their local communities.
Of course, the best reason to support these brands isn’t simply because they’re veteran-owned—it’s because they make outstanding products. From durable backpacks and handcrafted American flags to premium coffee and outdoor gear, these companies have built loyal followings by delivering quality first.
The next time you’re shopping for summer essentials, consider choosing a veteran-owned brand. You’ll likely discover a new favorite while helping fellow veterans continue serving in a different way.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if a business is veteran-owned?
Many veteran-owned companies proudly share their founders’ military backgrounds on their “About Us” pages. Some are also certified through organizations such as the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC) or the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Veteran Small Business Certification program.
Why should I support veteran-owned businesses?
Veteran entrepreneurs bring leadership, problem-solving and teamwork developed through military service into the business world. Supporting these companies helps strengthen local economies while recognizing those who have served.
Are veteran-owned products more expensive?
Not necessarily. Many veteran-owned companies are highly competitive with national brands while offering excellent customer service, quality craftsmanship and a strong commitment to their customers.
Where can I find more veteran-owned businesses?
Organizations like Bunker Labs, Warrior Rising, the National Veteran Business Development Council and local veteran chambers of commerce regularly highlight veteran-owned companies across many industries.
