Tattoos for men. Man has been adorning his skin since the dawn of the cave dweller, and tattoos for men have had a whole spectrum of purpose and meaning. From the early days – when tribal markings represented your place within society, and tattooing became a rite of passage proving a boy’s readiness for battle – to modern times (where tattoos can mean anything, and be inked on anyone), there has been a lot of changes in the world of tattooing. Let’s take a look at these 50 tattoos and see how these gents decided to commemorate their stories in ink.
50 Tattoos For Men:
1. Cultural Pride
The sun and three stars pictured in this hand tattoo represent the flag of the Philippines. This guy is definitely proud of his heritage.
2. 3D Scorpion
Many people think that tattoos for men need to be tough and fierce. Even though scorpions are small, they are mighty. This 3D arachnid looks awesome, and would be a great choice for any tough guy, Scorpio, or Adolfo Camarillo High School alum (Go Scorps!).
Limited Time Offer (click photo)
3. 3D Spider
This eight-legged creeper is sure to frighten a few people who might just think it’s real.
4. Praying Angel
Angels are a common theme in tattoos for men. This lady seems a bit sensual to have a rosary wrapped around her hand, but whatever floats your boat.
5. Angel In Memoriam
Another praying angel, yet this one is much more somber, in memory of Sammy.
6. Angel Wings
Angel wings and crosses are definitely common men tattoo ideas, and this is a great example of the genre. Nice lines and shading.
7. Devil or Angel?
Every man has a little devil and a little angel in him, he just has to decide which one to listen to. This guy can’t seem to decide.
8. Tribal symbols
Tribal tattoos for males who aren’t in any kind of tribe have become increasingly common. That being said, this one looks pretty cool.
9. Flock of Birds
Very cool sketch style in this tattoo, with birds flying across his bicep.
10. Tribal design on both arms
A double dose of tribal designs, with matching images on each arm, makes these tattoos for those who prefer symmetry.
11. Large Tribal Scrolls
This tribal tat almost looks like tiger stripes! A nice choice of tattoos for men with cat-like reflexes.
12. Arch Enemies
Superhero tattoos for men can be awesome if done well, like this colorful Keaton/Nicholson version of Batman and Joker.
13. Make Me a Mix Tape
I wonder when this tattoo was done? Do kids nowadays even know what this is? A mix tape makes an awesome tattoo for men who are lovers of both music and nostalgia.
14. Realistic Circuit
Ripped skin and circuitry make for a likely choice for men who are into computers.
15. Bright Koi Fish
A gorgeous, brightly colored koi fish is a symbol of good luck, so they make great subjects for tattoos for men.
16. Nailed Cross
Is this tattoo every Catholic’s dream or nightmare? Religious tattoos can be traditional or more creative, like this bloody cross made of nails.
17. Cracked Cross
This cross is kind of creepy with all that cracking skin.
18. Celtic Cross
Sometimes tattoos can be representative of someone they love. This cross with Celtic knots, a fleur de lis and a crown, along with the words “Lil’ King” could very well be a tribute to a friend, a family member, or maybe even a pet.
19. Only the Strong Survive
Another bloody nail cross – so maybe this is common amongst religious tattoos for men?
Limited Time Offer (click photo)
20. Sweet Tiger
This adorable little guy is so sweet! A good example for men who are willing to show their softer side.
21. Dragon Head
A pretty classic tattoo for men, this dragon looks like he’s about ready to spit some fire.
22. Freedom
Bald eagles: For men who love freedom. ‘Murica.
23. Asian Influence
A burning, blue lotus flower on one side and what appears to be, maybe, coral on the other makes these tattoos for men who don’t mind florals.
24. Lilies
Any man who gets a tattoo of flowers is okay in my book.
25. Rose Vines
There are a lot of options when it comes to floral tattoos, and this idea of a vine of roses and other flowers leading to a heart filled with names is a nice one.
26. Devil’s Eye
This squat little demon holding an eye is a good example of devilish tattoos for those who have a bit of a dark side.
27. Foxy
Animals make great tattoos. This fox is an incredible example with its realistic coloring and shading.
28. Rising Angel
More angel tattoos for men with faith.
29. Henna Style
This tattoo is sort of a cross between henna and tribal, and it’s a good tattoo for men who worship the sun.
30. Mr. Roboto
A popular genre of tattoo is the robotics/cyborg below the skin look.
31. Black and Yellow Koi
Another koi fish, but with a whole different look. The scales are black and the outlines are in color. Total contrast to #15.
32. Large Koi
Giant koi fish make great large, full-back tattoos for men. This one looks especially nice with the addition of only two colors.
33. Classy Cat
Lions are great (mighty, noble kings of the jungle), and this classy fellow looks like a serious gentleman.
34. Rosary
Another religious tattoo, the traditional praying hands with rosary.
35. Calligraphy
Lots of guys decide to have words inked across their chest in this fashion. Lettered tattoos for men can be great, just make sure they are easy to read.
36. Pretty Boy
This is a good looking guy with an unusual tattoo.
37. Sacred Heart
Adding a bunch of swords makes sacred hearts tattoos a solid choice for those who are bad-ass.
38. Scarface
Just make sure your artist is good at faces.
39. Scorpion 2.0
Another scorpion to sting you!
40. Skin and Bones
This guy wants you to know what he’s like on the inside. Are anatomical tattoos for men with backbone?
41. Rib Cage
He’s got no heart!
42. Mister Bones
This side tattoo of a skeleton seems to be missing some pieces, but it’s a creepy-cool idea when it comes to tattoos.
43. Scarification
A recent trend in tattoos is scarification. The skin is removed in thin strips to create a scar.
44. Skull Tuner
Someone turned this skull into a stereo? An interesting tattoo for men who love death metal.
45. Seeing Stars
Super simple star tattoos for men with dreams.
46. Realistic Tiger
This tiger isn’t as cuddly as #20 on this list, but he sure looks realistic.
47. Tribal Cross
This cross has a fish hook symbol in the center, which is referred to as “hei matau” in Maori culture, represents safe travels across the water. Appropriate for men who sail the seven seas.
48. Viking
There are none so badass throughout history as the Vikings, and those bearded, horn helmet-wearing tough guys make for serious tattoos for men who want to look tough.
49. Warrior
Is his face red because he’s angry that his feet are so small?
50. Epic Slayer
Large, epic side tattoos are a great way to tell a story, and this gladiator-type horseman slaying a serpenty dragon makes for a very bold statement, indeed.
Limited Time Offer (click photo)
WOW. I would like to make 2nd tattoo on my shoulder. 😀 10th is nice as well. :))
Thanks Adrian, I also like 10th one.
The scarface tattoo is terrible.
my name tattoo