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Description
The Rockstead CHI-DLC (智) is a premium Japanese folding knife that masterfully combines modern tactical engineering with traditional samurai heritage. As the highly collectible, discontinued successor to the Beetle model, the CHI features a striking Tanto profile with a unique SHINOGIZUKURI blade shape for unmatched structural strength. Crafted from high-performance YXR7 tool steel hardened to an incredible HRc65, the blade delivers legendary mirror-polished edge retention, protected by a scratch-resistant DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating. Designed for elite EDC collectors, the ergonomic 6063S aluminum handle is hard-anodized and features a premium, traditional genuine stingray skin inlay for a secure, luxury grip.
Key Features & Technological Innovation
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HRc65 YXR7 Tool Steel: Crafted from high-performance YXR7 matrix high-speed tool steel, heat-treated to an incredible hardness of around HRc65, offering industry-leading wear resistance and unmatched edge retention.
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Advanced DLC Coating: Upgraded with a premium Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) finish over Rockstead's signature mirror-polished surface, providing extreme scratch resistance and superior corrosion protection.
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SHINOGIZUKURI Tanto Geometry: Features a traditional Japanese Shinogizukuri blade shape derived from samurai swords, balancing a razor-sharp cutting edge with robust structural strength at the tip.
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6063S Aluminum & Stingray Inlay: The ergonomic handle is machined from hard-anodized 6063S aluminum, embellished with a genuine stingray skin (Ray skin) inlay for a secure, non-slip luxury grip.
YXR7 Blade Introduction
YXR7 is a premium matrix high-speed tool steel manufactured by Hitachi Metals, renowned for its exceptional impact toughness and high resistance to chipping, even at an impressive hardness of 60-65 HRC. This makes it an ideal choice for heavy-duty, hard-use tactical blades that endure severe stress. However, as a non-stainless tool steel with lower chromium content, its primary disadvantage is poor corrosion resistance, necessitating a protective surface coating and diligent oiling. Additionally, its high hardness makes field sharpening a demanding task requiring specialized abrasives.
| Parameter | Specifications |
| Brand | Rockstead (Japan) |
| Model | CHI-DLC (智) |
| Overall Length | 189 mm / 7.44" |
| Blade Length | 82 mm / 3.22" |
| Blade Thickness | 3.7 mm / 0.14" |
| Weight | 100 g / 3.52 oz |
| Blade Steel | YXR7 High-Performance Tool Steel |
| Blade Hardness | Around HRc65 |
| Blade Shape | Tanto (SHINOGIZUKURI Style) |
| Blade Coating | DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) |
| Handle Material | 6063S Aluminum (Hard-Anodized) |
| Handle Embellishment | Genuine Stingray Skin Inlay |
CHI-DLC FAQ
Q1: What is the difference between Rockstead CHI-DLC and older CHI models?
A: In 2015, Rockstead upgraded the CHI's blade coating from HPC (Hydro-Amorphous Carbon) to DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon). The CHI-DLC offers superior scratch resistance, a deeper dark finish, and enhanced corrosion protection over older versions while maintaining the same signature mirror-polished edge beneath the coating.
Q2: What makes YXR7 steel at HRc65 so special?
A: YXR7 is a high-performance matrix high-speed tool steel that achieves an extraordinary hardness of around HRc65 through Rockstead's proprietary heat treatment. This advanced metallurgy provides unmatched toughness and world-class edge retention, allowing the knife to cut continuously without dulling far longer than standard premium steels.
Q3: Since the Rockstead CHI-DLC is discontinued, can I still get it serviced or sharpened?
A: Yes. Rockstead stands behind their craftsmanship. Even though the CHI-DLC is a discontinued collector's item, you can still send it back to Rockstead in Japan for their legendary authorized sharpening and maintenance service, provided the knife has been registered by its owner.
Q4: Is the stingray skin inlay on the CHI-DLC handle real?
A: Yes, the handle features a genuine stingray skin (Ray skin) inlay embedded in hard-anodized 6063S aluminum. This traditional Japanese material is highly prized for its extreme durability and naturally pebbled, non-slip texture, reminiscent of classic samurai sword grips.
Q5: The Rockstead CHI-DLC is sold out. What are the best alternatives?
A: Since the CHI-DLC is a rare collector's piece, we recommend exploring active models with similar premium grinds and high-hardness steels. Browse our active Rockstead Collection to discover available alternatives like the HIGO, SHIN, or CHU series.
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Delivery and Shipping
In-stock orders will be shipped in 48 hours except weekend and holidays.
Pre-orders pls subject to the indicated Pre-order shipping dates.
From China warehouse: Estimated delivery in 15–21 business days