A knife maker's picks for sharp holiday gifting

New West KnifeWorks founder Corey Milligan began making knives as a hobby, and 25 years later crafts world renowned kitchen tools and knives. Photo: New West KnifeWorks.

JACKSON, Wyo. — New West KnifeWorks’ founder, Corey Milligan, started making knives because he loved to cook. Over the years, he’s become an expert in making knives and helping folks find the best knife for their particular needs. Each knife is designed based on his experience on the cutting board and the needs of our customers. Here are Corey’s recommendations for sharp gifting.

The Chris Kidder Special

For the serious cook who already has it all. I designed this for my brother-in-law, a highly accomplished restaurant chef. Who doesn’t want to have the biggest knife in the room? And at 12 inches, it’s a chopper and slicer in one rad package.

The Petty

This is the knife for everyone on your list, regardless of their experience level. It’s the perfect level-up for someone just getting into cooking and a welcome addition to the pro chef’s knife roll.

The Teton Edge Stantoku

An excellent fit for the active home cook looking for a chef knife that doesn’t have professional-level training. It’s sleek and manageable for folks intimidated by a larger blade, and the etching provides a bit of flair while allowing food to release more easily.

G-Fusion Steak Knife

Eating with loved ones is more sacred than ever. These beauties add ceremony to the meal as everyone chooses colors from the set. More importantly, the blade slides through a strip like warm butter.

The Glory Folder

Whether cutting baling twine, stripping wire, or opening boxes from Amazon, the pocketknife is essential for every man and woman. It is a gift that will last a lifetime for holidays, graduations, clients, and any occasion when you want to give something extraordinary.

The Western Chef

The Western Chef is about heft and power, sporting a heavy, almost cleaver-width blade for hacking, chopping, and dicing. Given a choice, if your hands itch for a two-handed broadsword rather than a sword— look no further— this knife is for you. Keep it in your knife roll, or wear it on your chaps. The Western Chef will prepare you for rodeo when things get Western in your kitchen.

If any of these knives sound like a great fit for someone you’re gifting this season, stop by 625 Main Street and see these U.S.-made craftsman knives in person, and get