The Rockstead UN-DLC (Gold) is a full-size Japanese fixed blade built around a 140 mm YXR7 blade, Rockstead’s Honzukuri convex geometry, DLC protection, and a removable silk-wrapped handle inspired by traditional Japanese sword construction. The Gold version uses Rockstead’s subdued Kincya cord color, creating a restrained contrast with the dark DLC blade.
Honzukuri blade / YXR7+ DLC
The blade is made from YXR7 tool steel, hardened to approximately 65 HRC and protected with DLC. Compared with Rockstead’s ZDP-189 configuration, YXR7 places greater emphasis on toughness, making the UN-DLC particularly well suited to demanding cutting where resistance to edge damage is important.
The substantial 5.2 mm blade stock is shaped in Rockstead’s Honzukuri geometry, with convex bevels on both sides of the blade. This leaves strong support behind the edge while reducing the abrupt shoulders that can make a thick blade wedge as it moves deeper into the cut. Rockstead demonstrates the UN-DLC cutting bamboo and states that the blade remains capable of slicing paper after chopping and cutting hard wood. This is a useful illustration of what the YXR7, approximately 65 HRC hardness and Honzukuri geometry are intended to achieve together: a strong edge backed by substantial blade stock without sacrificing cutting ability. Because YXR7 is not stainless, the main blade surfaces are protected by DLC. The sharpened edge remains exposed and should be cleaned and dried after use.
Silk-Wrapped Removable Handle
The UN is immediately recognizable by its Japanese sword-inspired handle construction. Instead of conventional fixed-blade scales, the removable handle uses a traditional-style silk wrap over the underlying handle structure. On the Gold version, the Kincya wrap is a muted sandy-gold tone rather than a bright metallic gold. Against the black DLC blade, it gives this configuration a warmer and more traditional appearance while remaining visually restrained. The handle assembly can be removed, although owner disassembly should only be undertaken in accordance with Rockstead’s current service and warranty guidance.
Dedicated Locking Sheath
The UN-DLC is supplied with a dedicated Wood Micarta and leather sheath. Rather than relying on friction alone, the sheath incorporates Rockstead’s locking retention system for positive blade retention.
At 255.5 mm overall and 254 g, the UN-DLC has the proportions and weight of a substantial fixed blade. The combination of 5.2 mm blade stock, YXR7 at approximately 65 HRC and Honzukuri convex geometry gives this version a tougher specification than the ZDP-189 UN while retaining the refined cutting geometry expected from Rockstead. Each Rockstead knife is individually serialized and supplied with its original factory documentation, including the measured hardness recorded for the individual blade.
