Fire Axe Inc..
These are great axes that will last for years, the owner is a fireman for LAFD he takes a lot of pride in his work and customers service, a little over your budget but worth it...maybe a few of his friends can pitch in together.
Vinny has a good suggestion for a really nice Leatherman/Gerber multi-tool also. Congratulations to him, I was 32 when I finally got hired full time so 39 aint too bad..its a long road to get there but worth it. He will have great stories, see so many wonderful things and many tragic ones but its such a great career. Tell him probation is tough but only 12 months...be Johnnie on the spot and go hard thats what the guys like to see.