But even tradition evolves. In 2021, Case took a bold step into the modern knife market, introducing models like the Marilla, Kinzua, and Westline—their first factory-produced one-handed opening knives with premium materials like S35VN steel and aluminum handles. These models marked a new era for Case, blending the company’s renowned craftsmanship with contemporary design and performance.

Fast forward to today, and that evolution continues with the Longhouse and Highbanks—two knives that, while carrying Case’s DNA, take distinctly different approaches. One embraces the modern world of hard-use pocket knives, while the other cleverly reimagines tradition in a fresh way.

Case’s First Modern Knives: Marilla, Kinzua & Westline

When Case stepped into the modern folding knife market, they started with three models that catered to different tastes while maintaining a high level of craftsmanship.

Marilla & Kinzua – Both knives feature aluminum handles and a frame lock for solid blade security. The Marilla adds a touch of refinement with a G10 inlay (or optional carbon fiber) on the show side, while the Kinzua offers a choice between a drop point or tanto blade. Both run on a ball-bearing pivot, making for smooth flipper deployment.

Westline – Built for those who favor simplicity and reliability, the Westline features a drop point blade with a liner lock, rather than the frame locks seen on its siblings. This gives it a familiar feel, while still incorporating Case’s modern design language.


These knives proved that Case could do more than just slipjoints—they could compete in the contemporary EDC world while maintaining the quality and heritage that made them famous.

The Longhouse: Case’s Tough, No-Nonsense Modern Folder

The Longhouse takes the foundation of the Marilla and Kinzua and refines it into a more compact, well-balanced everyday carry knife. Measuring 6.83 inches overall when open, with a 2.87-inch CPM-20CV clip point blade, it packs serious cutting performance into a 4-inch closed length.

Aesthetically, the burlap Micarta handle with aluminum bolsters is a standout feature. The Micarta provides a secure grip, while the bolsters add a modern yet classic touch. It’s a fully screwed-together design—a departure from the pinned construction of Case’s traditional knives—allowing for easier maintenance.

Deployment is where the Longhouse sets itself apart. Instead of a standard flipper, Case opted for a front flipper positioned for index finger deployment. It takes some getting used to, but once mastered, it’s both quick and intuitive. The ball-bearing pivot ensures buttery smooth action, and the liner lock keeps the blade secure during use.

Despite its mostly straight handle design, the Longhouse is comfortable in hand. The transition between the bolster and Micarta creates a natural resting point for the fingers, while the deep carry pocket clip with recessed screws allows it to sit low in the pocket. If there’s one minor drawback, it’s that the clip protrudes slightly, which may be noticeable during extended cutting sessions.

At its core, the Longhouse is a tough, modern EDC knife with premium materials and thoughtful design. It’s built to be used, not just admired—exactly what you’d expect from a Case knife made for the modern era.

The Highbanks: A Traditional Knife with a Modern Soul

While the Longhouse leans fully into the modern knife world, the Highbanks takes a different route—melding traditional aesthetics with innovative mechanics. At a glance, it looks like something that could have been in a Case catalog decades ago, but a closer look reveals modern ingenuity beneath the classic styling.

The handle shape is one of the biggest differences from the Longhouse. While similar in profile, the Highbanks has a more angular rear end that softens into a rounded contour where it meets the palm. This small change makes the knife noticeably more comfortable in extended use, proving that a subtle ergonomic tweak can make a big difference.

Handle material options include burlap Micarta, canvas Micarta, and rosewood. While the Micarta options offer excellent grip, the rosewood variant brings a warmth that only natural materials can provide, making it feel even more like a knife from a bygone era.

The blade, a modified Wharncliffe, pays tribute to the traditional shapes found in Case’s historic pocket knives. The stylized swedge adds a visual flair, while the full flat grind maximizes slicing performance, making it one of the best-performing blades in Case’s modern lineup.

Perhaps the most fascinating aspect of the Highbanks is its lock mechanism—or lack thereof. Instead of a liner lock or a traditional slipjoint spring, Case developed a double detent system. Detent balls at different points in the handle hold the blade closed, halfway open, or fully deployed, mimicking the “walk-and-talk” feel of a slipjoint but with a modern mechanical twist. This allows for a lightweight, streamlined build while keeping the knife fully functional.

Opening the Highbanks is done via a long pull cutout on the blade, reminiscent of the nail nicks found on traditional Case knives. The inclusion of a pocket clip and premium CPM-20CV steel brings it into the modern world, yet it still feels like a knife your father or grandfather would have carried.

The Highbanks is a fascinating mix of old and new—embracing history while finding clever ways to modernize the experience.


Case’s Evolution: Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future

From its legendary slipjoints to its first steps into the world of modern EDC, Case has continuously evolved while staying true to its roots. The Longhouse and Highbanks represent the latest chapter in that journey—one leaning into rugged modernity, the other refining classic traditions with a fresh approach.

For those seeking a hard-use, no-nonsense folding knife, the Longhouse delivers premium materials, smooth action, and durability in a compact package. Meanwhile, the Highbanks is a love letter to the past, reinterpreted with modern materials and an inventive locking system.

Case isn’t just adapting—they’re thriving. And whether you prefer the cutting-edge practicality of the Longhouse or the nostalgic charm of the Highbanks, one thing is clear: the future of Case knives looks as bright as its past.