Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
At a time when tactical flippers, OTFs, and tip-up carries are filling the shelves, Case Knives is opening 2026 with a mix of heritage returns and modern reinterpretations.
The Cheetah Cub Vault pattern, the Crossroads XR Barlow, and the all‑new Axe Handle. Together, they show how Case continues to balance collector interest with practical everyday carry.
Cheetah Cub: A Vault Pattern Returns
The Cheetah Cub returns in 2026 as the Case XX Vault Pattern, reviving a compact design originally introduced in 2005.
The Cub is a scaled‑down version of the original Cheetah, measuring 3.5 inches closed, and is immediately recognizable by its integrated swing guard and slim profile. The original was a sophisticated design in the late 1800s.
The knife features a clip‑point blade and traditional lockback construction, with blade options in Case Tru‑Sharp stainless steel or 1095 carbon steel, depending on configuration.
As a Vault release, the Cheetah Cub will be available only during 2026, with a wide variety of handle materials planned throughout the year. Case has an actual vault where they store the tooling for their knives.
For collectors, the appeal is scarcity. For users, the appeal is a small, distinctive lockback that carries easily while still offering positive hand protection.
Crossroads XR Barlow: A Classic Recut
The Crossroads XR Barlow is a modernized take on one of Case’s most enduring patterns. While it retains the familiar Barlow silhouette and elongated bolster, the XR Barlow is built using modern materials and a screwed‑together construction rather than traditional pinned assembly.
The knife features a CPM S35VN clip‑point blade, chosen for its balance of edge retention and corrosion resistance. Handle scales are made from Richlite, paired with G‑10 liners and bolster, keeping weight down while adding structural rigidity.
At approximately 3.4 inches closed and about 1.3 ounces, the XR Barlow is notably lighter than many traditional counterparts. It feels really good in your hand.
SEE ALSO: Browning X-Bolt 2 Maple Prints Sub MOA
The XR Barlow remains a non‑locking slipjoint, preserving traditional operation while quietly updating the materials and build quality for everyday use.
Axe Handle: A New Pattern with Custom Roots
The Case Axe Handle is a completely new pattern for 2026. Co‑designed with custom knifemaker Bill Ruple, the Axe Handle adapts a profile previously seen only in the custom knife world into a full production knife.
The knife takes its name from the flared handle shape, which subtly resembles an axe handle and provides a natural grip. It is a non‑locking slipjoint with a clip‑point blade and a 4‑inch closed length, placing it in a comfortable medium‑size category for traditional carry.
The Axe Handle is built in Bradford, Pennsylvania, and launches with multiple handle materials. It also introduces a new pattern stamp, marking it as Case’s first in‑line collaboration of this type.
The Takeaway
These three knives illustrate Case’s 2026 approach. The Cheetah Cub speaks to collectors and longtime fans through the Vault program. The XR Barlow updates a century‑old pattern with modern materials. Finally, the Axe Handle signals a willingness to introduce entirely new patterns when the design warrants it.
Rather than chasing trends, Case appears comfortable in their identity, offering knives that feel familiar in the pocket but current in execution. Seen them all here.
Cheetah Cub — Key Specifications
- Pattern: Cheetah Cub (Vault Release)
- Closed Length: 3.5 in
- Blade Length: approx. 2.6 in
- Blade Shape: Clip point with swing guard
- Blade Steel: Tru‑Sharp stainless or 1095 carbon (model dependent)
- Lock: Lockback
- Availability: Limited to 2026 as a Vault pattern
Crossroads XR Barlow — Key Specifications
- Pattern: XR Barlow (Crossroads Series)
- Closed Length: approx. 3.4 in
- Blade Length: approx. 2.5 in
- Blade Steel: CPM S35VN
- Blade Shape: Clip point
- Handle Material: Richlite with G‑10 liners and bolster
- Lock: Slipjoint (non‑locking)
- Weight: approx. 1.3 oz
Axe Handle — Key Specifications
- Pattern: Axe Handle
- Closed Length: 4.0 in
- Blade Length: approx. 2.7 in
- Blade Shape: Clip point
- Blade Steel: Tru‑Sharp stainless (model dependent)
- Lock: Slipjoint (non‑locking)
- Design: Co‑designed with Bill Ruple
- Manufacture: USA
*** Buy and Sell on GunsAmerica! ***
Available on GunsAmerica Now
Levi is an avid hunter, and an increasingly avid shooter. He strives to make delicious and simple recipes from the game he kills. He makes a living as a professional photographer and writer. Check out his work.