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New Knives of the Week: January 9th, 2026
Published: January 9th, 2026
January is already moving fast, and this week’s lineup proves it. The week's new knives bring a strong mix of traditional design and modern utility, with fresh drops from Case and a heavy wave of new gear from CRKT. On the traditional side, you’ll see familiar American craftsmanship paired with updated materials, along with a brand new traditional pattern, and the 2026 Case Vault Pattern that leans into pattern history in a way collectors will appreciate. CRKT, meanwhile, comes in with a broad spread of everyday carry options, including compact fixed blades, lightweight folders, new color runs, and a few designs that push deeper into work-ready function without losing pocket-friendly carry. Whether you’re here for classic styling, modern mechanisms, or just a solid tool you can put to use immediately, this week has plenty worth a closer look.
Case
SMKW Exclusive "Sandwich Warrior" XR Sod Buster Jr.
Released: January 2nd, 2026
The Case XX SMKW Exclusive Sandwich Warrior XR Sod Buster Jr updates a classic working pattern with modern steel and rugged materials. Built on the familiar ’37 frame, it features a 2.8-inch CPM S35VN stainless steel skinner blade with a Cerakote finish for added protection and reduced glare. At just .06 inches thick, the blade stays thin and efficient for everyday cutting, while still offering the edge retention and corrosion resistance S35VN is known for. The knife’s screw-together construction adds long-term durability, and the purple and brown burled G-10 handle scales provide a secure grip with a bold, layered look. It measures 6.4 inches overall, 3.63 inches closed, and weighs 2.1 ounces. Made in the USA.
Axe Handle
Released: January 5th, 2026
Version Shown: Tequila Sunrise
Case is introducing the Axe Handle, a brand new traditional pattern and one of the most notable additions to their lineup in years. Designed by Bill Ruple, it brings a fresh silhouette while keeping the classic, pocket-ready feel that defines a Case folder. The 3.46-inch clip point blade offers a strong all-purpose profile for everyday cutting, and the lockback mechanism adds a secure, dependable lockup during use. With a 4.4-inch closed length, it fits comfortably in your hand while still carrying easily in the pocket. The Axe Handle will be offered in a variety of handle materials, along with both Tru-Sharp stainless steel and carbon steel blade options, giving collectors and users multiple ways to tailor the pattern to their preferences. Made in the USA.
Cheetah Cub
Released: January 5th, 2026
Version Shown: Blue Sycamore
Case’s 2026 Vault pattern, the Cheetah Cub, brings back a compact traditional folder with a few features that set it apart from the usual small lockback. With a 3.5-inch closed length, it’s built for easy pocket carry, but it still offers the security of a lockback mechanism for everyday cutting. The standout detail is its swing guard, which moves as the blade opens and closes, adding a classic touch that also helps protect the hand during use. The Cheetah Cub will be available across multiple handle materials, along with a choice of Tru-Sharp stainless steel or carbon steel blades, giving collectors and users several ways to tailor the pattern to their preferences. Made in the USA.
CRKT
Minimalist Wharncliffe (New Variant)
The CRKT Minimalist Wharncliffe is a compact fixed blade built for controlled cuts and everyday utility. It features a 2-inch D2 wharncliffe blade with a black coated finish, giving you strong edge retention with a straight cutting edge that stays predictable through the cut. The Wharncliffe profile keeps the tip useful without sacrificing slicing performance, making it a great choice for opening packages, cutting cord, and detail work. A multi-colored G-10 handle adds secure traction in a small footprint that still feels locked-in during use. Measuring 4.89 inches overall and weighing just 1.2 ounces, it carries easily in the included thermoplastic sheath, and it comes with a lanyard cord for quick access.
Bear Claw (New Colors)
The CRKT Bear Claw Fixed is a purpose-built fixed blade that leans into fast, controlled cutting with a compact, claw-style profile. Its 2.39-inch blunt-tipped hawkbill blade is made from AUS-8 stainless steel with a stonewash finish, and the Veff serrations bite aggressively through cordage, webbing, and other fibrous materials with minimal effort. Blade thickness measures .13 inches, keeping the knife stout enough for hard use while still staying nimble in hand. The 3.3-inch GRN handle is shaped around the signature finger ring for a locked-in grip, backed by full tang construction for added rigidity, and it now comes in three new handle colors: pink, teal, and yellow. Measuring 5.69 inches overall and weighing 4.3 ounces, it carries in a color-matched thermoplastic sheath with a belt clip.
Burrower
The CRKT Burrower is a compact fixed blade designed for everyday utility with the toughness to handle harder use. It features a 3.66-inch D2 tool steel harpoon blade that brings strong wear resistance and reliable edge retention, finished in stonewash to help hide scuffs and working marks. Designed by Kaila Cumings, the Burrower uses full tang construction for added strength and a stable feel during controlled cutting. 4.15-inch Black Micarta handle scales provide a secure grip with a natural, textured feel that remains dependable even when wet. Measuring 7.81 inches overall with a weight of 4.7 ounces, it carries securely in a thermoplastic sheath with a belt clip for accessible carry.
Zephyr
The CRKT Zephyr is a slim, modern folder designed by Matthew Lerch, built for easy everyday carry with a controlled cutting edge. It features a 3.22-inch plain-edge sheepsfoot blade offered in two configurations: the Black G-10 version uses D2 tool steel with a satin finish, while the Green and White Topo or Black and White Topo versions switch to Sandvik 14C28N with a black titanium nitride finish. The blade rides on an IKBS ball bearing pivot and opens smoothly by flipper tab or thumb hole, locking up with a linerlock. Textured 3.96-inch G-10 scales keep traction without adding bulk. Measuring 7.19 inches overall, it weighs 2.1 ounces and carries comfortably on a tip-up pocket clip.
Razel Fixed Compact (New Variant)
The CRKT Razel Fixed Compact is a compact fixed blade knife built around Jon Graham’s signature Razel profile, blending slicing power with a squared-off tip that excels at scraping, scoring, and detail work. It features a 2.32-inch D2 tool steel chisel blade with a black oxide finish for added corrosion resistance and reduced glare. The blade includes Veff Flat Top Serrations that bite aggressively through cord, rope, and fibrous materials, while the .13-inch thickness keeps it stout without feeling bulky. A 2.95-inch orange G-10 handle provides a secure grip and high visibility, and the 5.27-inch overall length makes it easy to carry. It rides easily in a black thermoplastic sheath with a belt clip and weighs 3 ounces.
Razel Fixed (New Variant)
The CRKT Razel Fixed is a hard-use fixed blade designed by Jon Graham, built around a chisel-style profile that excels at push cuts, scraping, and controlled utility work. It features a 2.97-inch plain-edge D2 tool steel blade with a black oxide finish that helps reduce glare while adding protection against wear and corrosion. With a .17-inch blade thickness, the Razel carries a stout, rigid feel that holds up well to demanding contact work. The 3.78-inch orange G-10 handle provides a secure, textured grip and high visibility without sacrificing comfort. Measuring 6.75 inches overall and weighing 4.2 ounces, it carries comfortably in a thermoplastic sheath with a belt clip.
Fidus
The CRKT Fidus is a clean, work-focused liner lock folder designed by Michael Walker with practical carry and dependable cutting in mind. It features a 3.22-inch Sandvik 12C27 drop point blade with a stonewash finish, giving it strong corrosion resistance and an easygoing look that hides daily wear. The plain edge handles everything from package duty to general utility with a controllable tip and a stable cutting belly. Thumb stud deployment is paired with an IKBS ball bearing pivot for smooth, consistent opening, and the liner lock provides solid lockup during use. Black GRN handle scales keep the profile light and durable, with shaping that sits naturally in the hand without feeling bulky. Measuring 4.07 inches closed and 7.25 inches overall, it carries securely with a tip-up ambidextrous pocket clip.
Q Compact (Crossbar)
The CRKT Q Compact (Crossbar) is a streamlined everyday folder designed by Richard Rogers, offered in multiple handle colors and blade finish options. You can choose a stonewash blade paired with either black or sand GRN handles, or step up to a black oxide blade matched with aqua or red GRN handles for a bolder look. It features a 3.05-inch drop point blade made from Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel, giving it a strong balance of corrosion resistance, edge stability, and easy maintenance. The blade runs on an IKBS ball bearing pivot and deploys smoothly with a flipper, locking up with a dependable crossbar lock that supports fast one-handed use. Its lightweight GRN handle measures 4.01 inches closed, carries on an ambidextrous tip-up pocket clip, and keeps overall length at 7.03 inches.
Sero
The CRKT Sero Crossbar Lock is a clean, lightweight folder designed by Richard Rogers with everyday carry in mind. It features a 3.02-inch CPM S35VN drop point blade with a plain edge, offering strong edge retention and solid corrosion resistance for daily use. Flipper deployment keeps the action quick and consistent, while the crossbar lock provides secure lockup and smooth, ambidextrous operation. The Sero is offered in multiple finishes, including a satin blade paired with aqua or black GRN handle scales, or a Black TiN-coated blade matched with black or red GRN scales. The GRN handle keeps the knife slim and durable without adding weight. Measuring 4.33 inches closed and 7.88 inches overall, it weighs 2.3 ounces and carries comfortably on an ambidextrous tip-up pocket clip.
Slag
Released: January 8th, 2026
Version Shown: Black Oxide
The CRKT Slag is a compact, assisted-opening folder designed by Russ Kommer, built around quick deployment and simple reliability. It features a 2.95-inch D2 tool steel drop point blade with a plain edge that handles everyday cutting with strong wear resistance and a steady bite through the cut. Two finish options are available: a bead-blast version with a matching bead-blast finish on the stainless steel handle, or a black oxide version with a matching black oxide blade and stainless steel handle finish for a more subdued look. Assisted opening and a flipper tab provide fast, consistent action, while an IKBS ball bearing pivot keeps the swing smooth. A frame lock secures the blade during use, and the tip-up pocket clip supports comfortable carry. Measuring 3.93 inches closed and 6.81 inches overall, it weighs 3.2 ounces.
ToGo
The CRKT ToGo is a pocket-friendly bit driver built for precision work and everyday convenience. Measuring 3.48 inches long and weighing 2 ounces, it carries easily while still offering a solid, controlled feel in hand. The aluminum handle keeps weight down without sacrificing durability, and the integrated ball bearing spinner makes it easy to apply steady pressure while turning for smooth, accurate adjustments. A 4mm micro bit adapter supports detailed tasks, and the included bit set covers common needs with T6, T8, T10, T15, T20, 3.5mm slotted, and Phillips bits. Finished in OD Green for a simple, utilitarian look, the ToGo Driver is an easy addition to an EDC kit, tool bag, or workbench when you want compact capability without bulk.
C.U.T. (Compact Utility Tool)
The CRKT C.U.T. (Compact Utility Tool) is a streamlined everyday cutter that combines a replaceable SK-5 steel utility blade with a tough titanium handle for a lightweight, hard-use feel. Measuring 3.30 inches open and 2.66 inches closed, it disappears in the pocket but stays ready for constant work, from breaking down boxes to quick shop and gear tasks. The blade deploys with a simple thumb push, and the satin-finished cutting edge keeps a clean, practical look while standing up to daily wear. Beyond cutting, the C.U.T. adds useful built-in features including a bottle opener, flathead screwdriver, and prybar, giving it the versatility of a compact multi-tool without the bulk. A black titanium finish rounds out the low-profile design and helps it hold up to scuffs and carry.
HangPry (New Colors)
The CRKT HangPry Tool is a compact titanium utility piece built for quick leverage, scraping, and everyday problem-solving in a size that disappears in your pocket. Measuring 3.6 inches overall and weighing just 0.70 ounces, it’s easy to keep on a keychain, clipped to gear, or tucked into an organizer without adding bulk. This updated run is now offered in two finishes: a bronze finish for a warmer, worn-in look, or a no-finish option that keeps the raw titanium appearance clean and straightforward. The pry edge is shaped for controlled lifting and light prying tasks, while the machined body keeps everything smooth in the hand. A fob hole makes carrying simple, and the titanium construction adds excellent corrosion resistance for long-term use.
Counterpart
The CRKT Counterpart is a compact crossbar-lock folder built around everyday utility with several variations across blade steel, finish, and handle color. The drop point models use Sandvik 12C27 stainless steel, with the black-handled version carrying a satin finish, while the aqua and gray handle options switch to a black oxide finish for a darker, more utilitarian look. A separate version shifts to a D2 tool steel tanto with a black oxide finish and an all-black handle for added toughness and a more aggressive profile. All versions feature a 3.38-inch plain-edge blade running on an IKBS ball bearing pivot for smooth action, locking up with a secure crossbar. It measures 4.42 inches closed and 7.75 inches overall, and a tip-up ambidextrous pocket clip supports flexible carry.
Scar
Released: January 8th, 2026
The CRKT Scar is a sleek, fast-handling folder designed by Ken Onion with clean lines and a no-nonsense cutting profile. It carries a 3.30-inch D2 tool steel drop point blade with a satin finish, giving it strong edge retention and solid wear resistance for everyday use. The blade runs on an IKBS ball bearing pivot and opens quickly with a flipper, then locks in place with a reliable liner lock for secure cutting. Its 4.37-inch gray aluminum handle keeps the knife light and rigid while offering a comfortable grip and a streamlined feel in the pocket. Measuring 7.63 inches overall, the Scar weighs 2.72 ounces and rides comfortably in your pocket on a tip-up pocket clip.
M16-02XD
The CRKT M16-02XD keeps the beloved Kit Carson M16 profile while shifting to a crossbar lock for straightforward, one-handed operation. It features a 3.11-inch D2 tool steel spear point blade with a Desert Tan EDP finish that helps reduce glare and adds wear resistance, paired with a plain edge that handles everyday cutting with ease. Thumb studs provide quick, controlled opening, and the ambidextrous crossbar lock delivers secure lockup during use. The Desert Tan Grivory handle stays lightweight and durable, with enough texturing to keep the grip steady without feeling bulky. It measures 7.39 inches overall with a 4.24-inch closed length, and it rides on a tip-up pocket clip for comfortable daily carry.
M16-03XD
The CRKT M16-03XD keeps the classic Kit Carson M16 profile while shifting to an ambidextrous crossbar lock for straightforward, one-handed control. It features a 3.57-inch D2 tool steel spear point blade with a Desert Tan EDP finish that helps reduce glare and adds wear resistance, paired with a plain edge that handles daily cutting with ease. Thumb studs provide quick, controlled opening, and the crossbar lock gives secure lockup while making closing simple from either side. The Desert Tan Grivory handle keeps the knife lightweight and durable, with subtle texturing that stays secure in the hand without feeling bulky. It measures 8.25 inches overall with a 4.65-inch closed length, weighs 2.9 ounces, and rides on a tip-up reversible deep-carry pocket clip for comfortable everyday carry.
M16-14XK
The CRKT M16-14XK leans into the larger end of the M16 lineup, pairing Kit Carson’s familiar lines with a crossbar lock for smooth, ambidextrous operation. It carries a 3.97-inch D2 tool steel tanto blade finished in titanium nitride for added wear resistance, and the partially serrated edge uses Veff Serrations to bite hard into cord, webbing, and other stubborn materials. Thumb studs give the blade a quick, controlled opening, while the crossbar lock keeps lockup secure and easy to manage with one hand. The 5.35-inch black Grivory handle keeps weight reasonable without sacrificing durability, and a tip-up pocket clip makes daily carry simple. Overall length is 9.34 inches, and weight is 5.3 ounces.
Written By
Drew Clifton
Drew is the lead writer for SMKW's Knives 101, crafting informative and engaging content for the world’s largest knife store. With expertise in knife history, design, and functionality, Drew delivers articles and product descriptions that educate and inspire knife enthusiasts at all levels.
Expert Reviewed
T.C. Barnette
T.C. Barnette is a dynamic media personality and the esteemed spokesperson for SMKW (Smoky Mountain Knife Works), where his passion for knives intersects with his captivating on-screen presence. With a magnetic charisma and deep expertise in cutlery, T.C. has become a beloved figure in the knife community.









