The factory put the knob on way too tight. There is tab that folds out and when it's out, you've got a crank. But it wouldn't go, and since it is just plastic I was afraid I would break it. See the picture which shows the tab (crank handle) extended at 8 o'clock.
But look down inside, at the knob hub, and you see two fillets cast into the plastic radiating (well, approximately) from the knob hub at 5 o'clock and 11 o'clock in this photo. With needlenose pliers slightly open, you can bear one jaw of the pliers against each fillet from the side, and apply twisting counterclockwise. It will go easily without damage.
I got it loose with needle nose pliers.
The answer is yes, the 440E saw does fit in the "classic" double-walled clamshell case 100000101. The case comes with a 20 inch scabbard that fits into a vee notch like in other chainsaw carrying cases. But be aware, the case cannot be padlocked as advertised, nor are there tool and oil compartments as advertised. Disappointed. I'm exchanging it for something else.