Frequently Asked Questions
Product & Legal Questions
Do I need a licence to purchase a sword or other weapon from The Knight Shop?
No. UK law does not require a licence to purchase or own a sword. All weaponry sold by The Knight Shop is legal to own within the UK. Customers outside the UK should check local laws and import regulations before ordering.
Please note that weapons must not be carried in public without a lawful reason, such as attending a re-enactment event, HEMA training session, or theatrical performance.
Are your samurai swords legal?
Yes. All samurai swords (katanas) sold by The Knight Shop are manufactured in accordance with UK legislation and are legal to purchase and own within the UK.
Can I legally purchase your replica firearms?
Most replica firearms sold by The Knight Shop are non-firing replicas of pre-1870 firearms and are legal to purchase and own. Any products subject to additional restrictions will be clearly identified on the product page.
How old do I have to be to purchase weapons or alcohol?
You must be 18 years or older to purchase weapons, replica firearms, crossbows, knives, swords, or alcoholic products from The Knight Shop.
What is considered a weapon?
Any item designed to cut, stab, strike, or otherwise cause injury is classed as a weapon. This includes swords, daggers, knives, axes, maces, crossbows, and similar products.
Are your swords sharpened?
Some swords are supplied sharpened, while others are blunt for display, HEMA, training, or re-enactment use. Please refer to the individual product description for details.
What is the difference between a decorative sword and a functional sword?
Decorative swords are designed primarily for display purposes. Functional swords are constructed for practical use and are manufactured using materials and methods suitable for cutting practice or other intended activities. Always refer to the product description before use.
What does "battle ready" mean?
Battle-ready swords are designed for practical use and are manufactured to a higher specification than decorative replicas. However, suitability varies depending on whether the sword is intended for cutting practice, HEMA training, or re-enactment combat. Always check the product description and consult your club or organisation's requirements.
Are your swords and armour suitable for re-enactment?
Some items are specifically designed for re-enactment use and will be clearly identified as such on the product page. If an item is not described as suitable for re-enactment, it should not be assumed to be suitable.
How do I care for a carbon steel sword?
Carbon steel blades should be cleaned regularly and protected with a light coating of oil to prevent rust. Always store swords in a dry environment and avoid handling the blade with bare hands where possible.
Would you be interested in purchasing my sword?
Unfortunately, we do not buy second-hand products. We recommend specialist collector groups and forums for the sale of used swords and historical replicas.
Orders & Payments
How do I place an order?
Orders can be placed online through our website or by telephone with our sales team.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, PayPal, and most major debit and credit cards.
Can I place an order over the telephone?
Yes. Our team will be happy to process your order and answer any product questions over the phone.
Are your online payments secure?
Yes. All online payments are processed through secure, encrypted payment gateways. The Knight Shop does not store customer payment card information.
Do your prices include VAT?
Yes. All prices displayed on our website include UK VAT where applicable.
Why does PayPal say that my credit card or email address is attached to a PayPal account and ask for your PayPal password?
PayPal has recognised your credit card or email address as already attached to a PayPal account. To add security to your account it asks additional questions. If you have forgotten your password you can ask PayPal to send it to you. Alternatively use a card or an email address which is not connected to a PayPal account.
Delivery & Shipping
How quickly will my order be dispatched?
Most in-stock items are dispatched within 1 working day. UK mainland orders are typically delivered within 1–2 working days.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. We ship to customers worldwide. Shipping costs are automatically calculated during checkout based on destination and parcel size.
How can I check if an item is in stock?
Our website uses real-time stock information so you can see product availability before placing your order.
What happens if an item is out of stock?
Our website uses real-time stock information so you can see product availability before placing your order.
Can I track my order?
Yes. Tracking information is normally emailed to you once your order has been dispatched.
Can I arrange a timed or Saturday delivery?
Selected delivery upgrades may be available. Please contact our sales team before placing your order.
Returns & Customer Service
What is your returns policy?
Most products can be returned within the terms outlined in our Returns Policy. Please ensure items are returned in their original condition.
What if clothing or footwear does not fit?
Items can be returned for exchange or refund in accordance with our Returns Policy. Return shipping charges may apply.
Who do I contact if I have a problem with my order?
Our Customer Services team can be contacted by phone, email, or through our Contact Us page. We aim to respond to enquiries within one working day.
Visiting The Knight Shop
Do you have a physical shop?
Yes. Our retail store is located in Conwy, North Wales, directly opposite Conwy Castle and is open seven days a week.
Can I visit your warehouse?
Yes. Customers wishing to view specific products at our warehouse should contact us in advance to arrange an appointment.
Can I check product availability before travelling?
Absolutely. We strongly recommend contacting us before travelling if you wish to view a specific product so we can confirm availability and location.
About The Knight Shop
Why buy from The Knight Shop?
Established in 1999, The Knight Shop is one of Europe's leading suppliers of historical swords, armour, replica weaponry, HEMA equipment, medieval gifts, and collectibles. We are trusted by collectors, martial artists, re-enactors, museums, castles, and heritage organisations throughout the UK and around the world.
Who do you supply?
In addition to serving individual customers, we supply museums, castles, heritage sites, visitor attractions, educational organisations, HEMA clubs, theatre groups, and re-enactment societies.
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