Recommendation? Titanium handle with black DLC coating

[Dunnie19]

Hi all -

Newer to the forum. Been a reader more than a poster.

I have a decent collection of about a dozen of nice knives (I.e Chris Reeve, Hinderer,
SpiderCo, Koenig).

I am considering a Koenig Mini Arius with a black DLC smooth titanium handle.

My question is how much wear and discoloration should I expect on a handle like this?

While I use my knives, I am not digging holes or on the battle field type of use but one or two are always in my pocket and doing mostly ‘white collar’ suburban dad type tasks.

Any and all thoughts / past experiences are welcome.

Thanks,

 

[Hyesouljah]

DLC, unlike coating like cerakote, Gunkote, black oxide, holds up really well to wear and snail trails.

Usually if you think you’ve scratched all it takes is a magic eraser or some lighter fluid to clean it up and have it look like new.

DLC is fantastic stuff and I love it.

 

[Leo Greer]

DLC is only as hard as the surface it is applied to. DLC’ed titanium will still scratch and mar just like regular, so it really depends on the finish. Koenig’s smooth finishing is rather snail-attractant in my experience, but I can’t say anything for sure about how good their DLC is.

I will say, as with any knife, if you plan to use it, be okay with light cosmetic wear and scratches! If you use it long enough, you’ll have it happen.

 

[norcalAF]

Personally, I've found LG's stonewash finish one of the best to hide wear, both on the blade and on the handles.