Frequently asked questions.

I want to purchase a knife from your shop but I am concerned with buying a custom knife online that I have not held/seen in person, What is your return policy?

Understandable. It is almost like buying a pair of shoes online, you don’t know if you will like them until you try them on. If for any reason, you are not happy with your purchase, you may return the knife(s) within 14 days for a full refund. You will only be out shipping costs.

The knives in the online shop look nice. If I order a knife is it the one I will receive? do you altar the pictures in any way?

Every knife in the shop is a unique, custom build and on hand/in stock. All pics are unaltered (no filters/photoshop/etc.) I try to display multiple angles of each knife and list it's specs to give you a good idea of what to expect. The knives look better in person, as I am better knifemaker than I am a photographer.

If I order a knife from the online shop, when can I expect delivery?

Typically online orders will be shipped out next business day. Assuming delivery to the continental U.S. (shipped via UPS or Fedex) delivery within 3-5 business days.

How are orders packaged for shipping?

Boxed in cardboard with the full knife(s) protected with recycled cardboard/packaging material to prevent damage or accidents when opening. Simple, cost effective, nothing fancy.

My VMW knife has become dull. Do you offer sharpening services?

Every VMW comes with free lifetime tune-ups/sharpening, all you have to do is cover shipping!

If I wanted you to make a custom knife, what are the options/parameters?

Preferably a style from something based in the VMW shop or gallery so you will have a good idea what the finished product will resemble.

Options would include:

Style

Steel - I primarily work with stainless PM steels and usually have a decent supply on hand.

Handle material - endless options of exotic wood species and synthetic materials to choose from

Bolsters y/n -material: stainless/brass

Pin style/size/material

Target hardness (HRC)

Edge angle

If you have something in mind, reach out with questions and I will happily give you a quote!

What is the delivery time on a custom built knife?

If I have the steel and scale material in stock, typically about two weeks before delivery. If the steel has to be ordered, expect 3-4 weeks for delivery.

I will keep you updated on the progress during the build, nothing worse than having something made/built and being left in the dark on when it will be ready.

If I were to send you some bone/stag/antlers could you make a knife with it?

That's not really in my wheelhouse. Machining non-uniform material into a performance grip while still resembling the "look" is not really what I am tooled for and neither one of us would probably be happy with the results.

I see a knife in your shop that I like but would prefer a custom build with [X] handle material (or steel) instead of [Y] material, would the custom build be priced differently?

All VMWs are handmade and I do not charge more for custom orders. The prices are based off the material costs, depending on what materials you want it may be slightly more or less expensive but should be in the same ballpark as the knife in the shop.

Do your knives require any special care?

VMWs are built for work and to last a lifetime with some basic, common sense care. As with any cutlery, you should handwash only and dry after use. Steam and heat from a dishwasher over time can break down even the best stabilized and/or oiled woods and synthetic materials, not too mention clanking around in a dishwasher will prematurely dull the knife’s edge. Soaking or extended exposure to moisture will also cause all woods to expand/contract. Avoid using glass surfaces (or your stone countertops) as cutting boards, this will prematurely dull any blade. Use wood, plastic, or composite cutting boards for the best results on any cutlery.

Other than that, simply use it as a knife was meant - to cut. If you need a prybar or hammer go check your toolbox!

Have a different question?

Call, text, or email. I will be happy to answer any question you may have!