Lakewood Products

Lakewood Cases was founded approximately 35 years ago in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, by Bob Metropolis. The name “Lakewood” reflects a blend of passions—Lake for water and fishing, and Wood for hunting and shooting.

Originally, Lakewood partnered with Midwest Textile, which manufactured bags for the company in its early years. Ownership later passed from Metropolis to Berlin Glove, and then to the Hess Family. Eventually, the current owner, Steve Wagnitz, was approached by the Hess Family with an offer to purchase the business—and he accepted.

Under Wagnitz’s leadership, Lakewood has refined and reinforced its product line, creating cases tougher and more functional than ever. Most Lakewood products are developed by individuals who live and breathe the outdoors—professional hunters, anglers, and shooting sports experts—ensuring each product is built with real-world performance in mind. Customer input and field testing are central to Lakewood’s product development, and the results speak for themselves: these cases are among the most durable and dependable in the industry.

In a time when many companies outsource production overseas, Lakewood remains committed to American manufacturing. Every product is made in the USA—specifically, in Lakewood’s own facility, by its own team. This hands-on approach ensures uncompromising quality and gives customers confidence in the craftsmanship behind every case.

Lakewood proudly backs its products with a Limited Lifetime Warranty against manufacturing defects. The company’s motto, Lakewood Tough, isn’t just a slogan—it’s a standard. 

Lakewood invites customers to become part of a tradition built on quality, toughness, and American pride.