The steel has been upgraded from Böhler N690 to a Nitrogen-boosted steel, a choice aimed at further increasing resistance to oxidation and corrosion in saline environments. The surface treatment has also been renewed: the previous burnishing has been replaced by the EXP Dark coating, which improves protection against corrosive agents and maintains anti-reflection properties. These technical variations result in a significant improvement in marine environment resistance. To ensure optimal performance over time, proper maintenance remains recommended, particularly for the edge and line cutter areas, through:
- Rinsing after every dive, to remove salt residue and prevent corrosion.
- Complete drying, to avoid water stagnation.
- Periodic lubrication, applying a thin layer of anti-corrosion protective oil to the blade.
Choice of material: The decision to maintain a steel structure instead of titanium does not imply the absolute superiority of one material over the other but responds to precise functional requirements. While titanium offers lightness and total immunity to rust, steel guarantees greater hardness, superior edge retention, and higher structural robustness: fundamental characteristics for the intended use of this tool.
Carrying system and accessories: The knife is supplied with a Kydex sheath complete with paracord for attachment to belts, MOLLE systems, and tactical gear. Various attachment systems, available as optional accessories (sold separately), can be applied to the sheath platform:
- Belt Clip
- Malice Clip
- Rubber straps for belts/waistbands
As a further accessory solution (sold separately), the Kydex sheath can be inserted into a technical fabric platform, made of nylon and polyester webbing coupled with a non-slip rubberized polymer membrane. The fabric sheath is designed to allow multiple attachment modes:
- To the VIS (Variable Inflating System) / BCD inflation system
- To the ankle
- To the arm
Particular attention has been paid to the extraction system: a panic-safe mechanism is provided, allowing for the quick release of the blade through simple traction, without the need to manually operate the locking buckle.
Handle: The handle, made of fiberglass-reinforced nylon with a non-slip surface finish, ensures an ergonomic, stable, and secure grip. The geometry is designed to offer maximum control both with technical diving gloves and bare hands, allowing for precision work and the application of force.
Additional accessories: The DICOK TS can be equipped with a strap wrench (optional and sold separately), designed for unlocking the first-stage valve, which can be stored in a dedicated pocket within the fabric sheath.