Today, Case announces a showcase of new product introductions for 2026, including modernized classics and highly anticipated returns from the Case XX® Vault. This year’s highlights span traditional folding knives, modern everyday carry (EDC) designs and heritage-inspired patterns, all rooted in Case’s longstanding commitment to American craftsmanship.
“We’re excited to enter the New Year with a lineup that truly reflects how tradition and innovation coexist at Case,” said Brent Tyler, vice president of global marketing at Case Knives. “From custom-inspired designs to our new Vault return and modern evolutions of our most iconic patterns, these introductions demonstrate how we continue to honor our heritage while delivering dependable knives built for today’s users and collectors.”
The Case Axe Handle® marks the introduction of a brand new traditional pattern inspired by the craftsmanship of award-winning custom knifemaker Bill Ruple. Drawing from a design once exclusive to the custom knife world, the Case Axe Handle brings that heritage to a broader audience with the performance and reliability of a traditional folder expected from Case. Featuring a non-locking, taper-ground stainless steel clip blade and a comfortable 4-inch handle, the knife is built with care in Bradford, Pennsylvania. Bridging custom artistry and factory precision, the Case Axe Handle delivers timeless function with everyday versatility.
The Case Cheetah® Cub returns from the Case XX Vault in 2026, reviving a pattern admired for its compact profile and signature swing guard feature integrated at the handle. First introduced in 2005 as a scaled-down version of the original Case Cheetah, the Cub trims the frame to 3 ½ inches closed. Available in a wide range of handle options, the Cheetah Cub will be offered for a limited time as part of the Vault program, giving collectors and everyday users a rare opportunity to pocket this elusive pattern before it returns to retirement.
The XR Barlow represents a modern evolution of a Case classic as part of the Crossroads Series, blending traditional design with contemporary materials and precision craftsmanship. Retaining the iconic Barlow frame, the XR Barlow features a durable, screwed-together construction designed for long-term performance, along with lightweight Richlite® handles and a G-10 liner and bolster for added strength. Its premium S35VN stainless steel blade delivers excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance, making it ideal for everyday carry. The XR Barlow measures 3.4 inches closed and weighs just 1.3 ounces.
As the first design in the company’s innovative Crossroads Series, the XR Sod Buster® Jr. reimagines the timeless Case ’37 Sod Buster Jr. with its original frame and slip joint mechanism, updated using next-generation materials and construction. Handle options from rugged cloth laminates like black burlap and blue denim to wood laminates, paired with G-10 liners in complementary colors and a stonewashed S35VN stainless steel blade for exceptional edge retention and durability. A screwed-together construction helps ensure long-term performance. American-made craftsmanship remains at the core of the XR Sod Buster Jr., which measures 3 5/8 inches closed and weighs 2.1 ounces.
All highlighted products will be available through authorized Case dealers nationwide and on caseknives.com starting late January and throughout 2026. Specific availability and pricing will vary by model and handle configuration.