A good solid example of GSM cutting corners- DLC coating replaced with Cheaper Alternative on some models

Here are four blades which have been coated using a Physical Vapor Deposition process in a vacuum chamber using vaporized ceramic materials. From left to right: 1) A Cabela Alaskan Guide in S-30-V coated with DLC (Tungsten Diamond Like Carbon) which is Tungsten Carbide at 72 HRC (Hardness 72 Rockwell C scale). 2) A BuckCote 420 HC chisel sharpened blade coated with TiN (Titanium Nitride) at 82 HRC which has been modified for SELECTION in the Selector Handle. 3) A 420 HC BuckCote blade which is coated with ZrN (Zirconium Nitride) at 86 HRC. 4) A 420 HC BuckCote blade which is coated with TiAlN (Titanium Aluminum Nitride) at 92 HRC.
When we test organic coatings (paint) like CeraKote for hardness, we use specially sharpened drafting pencils like 3H, 4H, etc. Air dry paints usually rate 2H. Baked paints usually rate 4H. 2H is about the same hardness as a thumb nail. Ceramic coatings are much harder. The 2nd picture shows a ZDP-189 knife at 67HRC being touched up, edge leading, on a 72 HRC coated blade.View attachment 2010538View attachment 2010537
 
I've been in possession of a sample of this new coating on an Espada XL for a few days now.

I'm just going to stick my neck out here and say my take on this. I find it very, very hard to believe GSM Cold Steel would choose a more costly coating here, and I am highly skeptical of the claim this new coating is superior to the DLC of old. I'm not going to bang up my new blade just to find out and post pics here, but there will be others who will, so time will tell the truth about this new coating.
 
I wish I had seen this thread before ordering the new OD green/black blade AD10. Still stoked, but a bit unsure what I'll be receiving exactly..
 
Shaun Cazin said:
That particular Espada uses a black PVD coating which is actually a more durable option in comparison to our DLC coating. PVD is actually a more premium option. Can you please post a few close-up images of the scratches? We would like to investigate this further.
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Wrong and wrong. Stop spreading misinformation and get more educated on this subject matter if you want to represent the company.
DLC is the coating material and PVD is coating process. Comparing DLC to PVD is like comparing hamburger and air fryer.
I highly doubt your “PVD” coating is a more expensive option. DLC is one of the most expensive coatings uses for very high end applications.
I’m gonna apply hanlon’s razor here and assume that your comment is due to lack of research, and not a blatant lie about this being more costly.
 
el gigantor said:
I wish I had seen this thread before ordering the new OD green/black blade AD10. Still stoked, but a bit unsure what I'll be receiving exactly..
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the knife will have a matte black finish instead of a shiny one like the blade on the recon 1 folder, it doesnt look bad but the dlc finish on the recon looks way nicer and im sure it will mark up/scratch way easier than the dlc finish
 
That knife is so cool!! I love my Voyager XL. Always draw attention and starts some fun conversations. And honestly is very practical when I’m out scouting. Specially for the occasional prickers along trails.
 
cut it out said:
That knife is so cool!! I love my Voyager XL. Always draw attention and starts some fun conversations. And honestly is very practical when I’m out scouting. Specially for the occasional prickers along trails.
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Curious as to what's your favorite Voyager? Drop point, tanto, Etc
 
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