Next DLC batch is TBD 1st quarter 2027 (sign up for DLC newsletter updates here)
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ABOUT OUR DLC
The normal (higher temp) DLC we use is a PECVD and is applied with a specific formula at ~6-7µ (microns) thick (which is roughly 1/5th as thick as Cerakote) and much, much more wear resistant in my testing. The self lubricating property of this DLC is amazing, having a coefficient of friction of less than 0.1 when completely dry. Not only is it non-toxic and inert (therefore doesn’t react w/ corrosive chemicals or oxides) but it contains no pin-holes or pores for corrosion to take place.
All DLC coatings aren’t equal – at a great expense we have tested DLC coatings from all over the country to determine which is the absolute best for knives and the normal DLC we use has been the clear winner which is why we’ve used it for years now.
Lately we have had to shift to providing a secondary (lower temp) DLC coating for specific steels (Magnacut, Vanax, etc.) that can’t handle the heat. Max heat on this coating is 400F but typically it’s 350F. This coating is a PVD DLC coating, and while not as durable as the above higher temp stuff it looks amazing and is much safer for the temper of your blade!
For more on abrasive testing (high temp DLC) click here! If you are interested in seeing how this coating provides corrosion protection (high temp DLC), check out this testing! (note this testing was done with high temp DLC only)
IMPORTANT INFO
- The processing temps are up to 540°F for the high temp DLC and up to 400°F for the low temp DLC but it’s typically at 350F (so make sure it won’t affect your blade’s ht)
- DLC is only available in one color – black
- DLC takes on the finish of the metal, it will not cover or hide any scratches, wear, or inconsistencies in the metal. ℹ️
- Prices include coating your item in an ‘as-is’ condition, but the metal must be bare w/ no oxidation or other coating. We provide blasting prep for an additional fee (listed below).ℹ️
- The two blasting options are coarse sandblast (120 grit alox) or fine blast (240 grit alox) depending on the finish desired.
- Insurance surcharge may be added to your final invoice ℹ️
PRICING
Fixed Blades ℹ️
- Up to 6″ overall length – $100
- 6″-10″ overall length – $175
- 10″-13.9″ overall length – Individually quoted
- 14″+ cannot be coated
- Disassembly/reassembly of handle – starts at $5
- Paint Stripping (for DLC prep): $6/inch of overall length and includes blasting.
- Sandblasting prep (for a matte DLC) is $2/inch of overall length ($15 min)
Folders ℹ️
- Blade only (up to 5″) – $75
- Scales or liners only – $140
- Single scale/liner only (up to 5″) – $75
- Hardware Set – $75 min per set (click ℹ️ for notes and pricing)
- Package deal (entire folder) ℹ️ – $225
- Disassembly/reassembly/lube – $20-30 most knives ℹ️
- Sand blasting (for a matte DLC finish) is charged at a rate of $15 for a blade, $15 per scale, and $15 for a set of hardware
* Keep in mind that for a folder you are trying to calculate, additional charges above the package deal price would apply for: dis/reassembly, any blasting costs (to set up finish or remove snail trails or ano), inlay removal/reinstall if applicable, and sharpening services after the coating. I leave it up to my customers if they want to handle these aspects of the process or not.
Pens/Flashlights
These will be quoted individually (due to piece variation) but pens start at $150 and flashlights start at $175. Customer is fully responsible for dis/reassembly, fitment, and any DLC stripping for electrical connections after DLC is applied. We can blast certain areas if you need us to strip from specific areas, just ask.
Pens & Flashlights must be fully broken down into individual all-metal components before sending in for coating.
