Case & Bill Ruple Collaboration

[unclekurty]

I think the distinction between Ruple/CASE Collaboration lockback knives (the subject of the thread) and the later production spring knives in Axehandle form should be maintained. Otherwise confusion could run riot....

Well said Will. Case only refers to the Axe Handle as being co-designed with Ruple. I wish Case would at least announce a new Ruple collaboration knife. If they do another I hope it’s not larger than 4 inches. Maybe Case is focused on their flipper line. Anyone know about a future collaboration knife?

 

[Wharn]

Happy to report Case fixed all the issues with the knife. No more lateral blade play and centering is great. Very nice knife. Happy Easter!

 

[Wharn]

I think the distinction between Ruple/CASE Collaboration lockback knives (the subject of the thread) and the later production spring knives in Axehandle form should be maintained. Otherwise confusion could run riot....

You are right, I apologize probably should have posted in a separate thread to avoid confusion.

 

[Will Power]

You are right, I apologize probably should have posted in a separate thread to avoid confusion.

We all err sometimes But no harm done at all, I just wanted to draw a line so others didn't follow.

In fact, I think those CASE non Collab versions are very tidy knives, would like one but the problem is they seem to be perma out of stock. (Plus being in the EU...makes it all very tricky for me nowadays) Must be a hot seller!

 

[SharpBits]

We all err sometimes But no harm done at all, I just wanted to draw a line so others didn't follow.

In fact, I think those CASE non Collab versions are very tidy knives, would like one but the problem is they seem to be perma out of stock. (Plus being in the EU...makes it all very tricky for me nowadays) Must be a hot seller!

They are starting to enter stock now. I was able to order one last week. Trickling in, so to speak.

 

[SharpBits]

What is the correct thread to talk about the production Axe Handles?

 

[brownshoe]

What is the correct thread to talk about the production Axe Handles?

Well this is what Case says about the pattern:

Case Knives is proud to introduce an all-new slip joint pattern, the Case Axe Handle®. While Case is known for releasing fresh handle materials, colors, jigs, and shields, it’s rare that we unveil a completely new pattern, making this launch truly more significant. Co designed with award-winning custom maker Bill Ruple, the Axe Handle earns its name from its distinctive profile. With this new pattern comes a new pattern stamp: BR’135. “BR” honors Ruple’s influence, “1” signifies our first in-line collaboration with him, and “35” celebrates his 35 years of custom knife craftsmanship. Fittingly, 135 is also the number of years Case had been in business when work on this knife began. Its 4-inch handle makes it an ideal medium-size carry that feels natural in the hand, and the variety of available materials, colors, and blade steels ensures there’s a perfect Axe Handle for every user.

Crafting a brand-new knife pattern in an American factory rooted in hand craftsmanship is no small task. But the team at Case knew this design was worth the effort. The Case Axe Handle® is sure to spark a collector following and become a favored EDC among slip joint fans. Don’t wait, be among the first to carry a Case Axe Handle®.

Maybe a new thread is needed, but since Case has not come out with a second Ruple collaboration, the first was in 2024, maybe it’s a one and done collaboration thus it could stay here . In the Bose days, I think there was a new pattern released in January, which didn’t occur in 2025 or 26.

 

[Will Power]

What is the correct thread to talk about the production Axe Handles?

Either of the CASE threads that are running here. I'm certain people would appreciate discussion of a new pattern such as this, a new CASE release is always going to be of interest,

However, I think B brownshoe makes an important point in that there appear to be no more Ruple Collab knives in 2025 or 2026 (so far...) it may be a one off?

 

[black mamba]

Perhaps they should have tried a more traditional slipjoint for the first offering. If memory serves, there was even a less than stellar reaction on BFC, and who loves knives more than we do???

 

[SharpBits]

It is a great design, but not for the first release, I agree. I hope Case and Ruple don’t give up on the partnership.

 

[brownshoe]

I believe Ruple has done partnerships with two other firms, Queen and Moki/Old School Knfeworks: two knives with Queen and one with Old School.