Frequently Asked Questions

Shipping & Delivery

What are your shipping rates?

We offer a flat $19.99 shipping rate on all orders within the United States. Every blade is carefully packaged to ensure it arrives safely and in perfect condition.

How long will it take to receive my order?

Most in-stock orders ship within 2–4 business days from our workshop in Kalispell, Montana. Once shipped, standard delivery typically takes 5–8 business days depending on your location. You will receive a tracking number as soon as your order is on its way.

Do you ship internationally?

At this time, we ship within the United States and internationally. Please check back — we are working to expand our shipping options in the future.

Materials & Craftsmanship

What is Damascus steel?

Damascus steel is a time-honored forging technique in which multiple layers of high-carbon and stainless steel are folded, twisted, and forge-welded together. The result is a blade with a distinctive flowing pattern — no two are ever alike — and exceptional strength, edge retention, and sharpness. Each SHAM KNIVES blade is forged one at a time by hand, honoring centuries of bladesmithing tradition.

What handle materials do you use?

We select only premium natural and artisan materials for our handles, including:

  • Rosewood — rich, warm grain with natural durability
  • Buffalo Horn — dense, striking, and uniquely patterned
  • Stag Horn — rugged and deeply traditional, no two pieces identical
  • Epoxy Resin — bold, modern designs with exceptional grip and finish

Handle material is noted in each product listing. Custom handle preferences are available — see our Custom Orders section below.

Custom Orders

Can I order a custom knife?

Absolutely. Custom work is at the heart of what we do. Whether you have a specific blade style, handle material, length, or engraving in mind, we welcome the conversation. Reach out to us through our Contact page with your vision and we will work with you to bring it to life.

How long does a custom order take?

Because every blade is forged and finished by hand, custom orders typically require 4–8 weeks depending on complexity and current workshop volume. We will give you a clear timeline estimate before any work begins, and keep you updated throughout the process.

Is a deposit required for custom orders?

Yes, a 50% deposit is required to begin work on a custom piece. The remaining balance is due prior to shipment. Full payment details will be confirmed during your order consultation.

Knife Care & Maintenance

How do I care for my handmade Damascus knife?

A well-maintained Damascus blade will last a lifetime and beyond. Here are our care recommendations:

  • Hand wash only. Never place your knife in a dishwasher — the heat and moisture will damage both the blade and handle.
  • Dry immediately. After washing, dry the blade thoroughly with a soft cloth to prevent moisture from causing rust or patina.
  • Oil regularly. Apply a light coat of food-safe mineral oil or camellia oil to the blade periodically to protect against oxidation.
  • Store properly. Use a knife block, magnetic strip, or blade guard. Avoid storing loose in a drawer where blades can knock against other utensils.
  • Sharpen with care. Use a whetstone or have your blade professionally sharpened. Avoid pull-through sharpeners, which can damage the edge geometry.

Will my Damascus blade develop a patina?

Yes — and that is part of its character. High-carbon Damascus steel naturally develops a patina over time with use, which actually helps protect the blade. Many of our customers consider this a mark of a well-loved knife.

Returns & Exchanges

What is your return policy?

We stand behind every blade we make. If you are not fully satisfied with your purchase, please contact us within 14 days of delivery. Items must be returned in their original, unused condition and original packaging. Once we receive and inspect the return, we will issue a refund or exchange.

Are custom orders returnable?

Because custom pieces are made specifically for you, they are non-refundable once production has begun. However, if there is a craftsmanship defect or error on our part, we will make it right — no questions asked.

Who covers return shipping?

Return shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer unless the return is due to a defect or an error on our end, in which case we will provide a prepaid return label.

Gift Options

Can I send a SHAM KNIVES blade as a gift?

A handmade Damascus knife makes an extraordinary gift. We offer gift-friendly packaging on request — simply mention it in the order notes at checkout and we will take care of the presentation. We also carry curated chef knife sets that make a stunning gift for the serious cook or outdoor enthusiast.

Can you include a personalized message?

Yes. Add your message in the order notes at checkout and we will include a handwritten card with your order.

Payment Methods

What payment options do you accept?

We accept all major credit and debit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. We also support Shop Pay, Apple Pay, and Google Pay for a fast, secure checkout experience.

Is checkout secure?

Yes. Our store is powered by Shopify, which uses industry-standard SSL encryption to keep your payment information safe at every step.

Still Have Questions?

We are a small, hands-on operation and we love hearing from our customers. Reach out anytime through our Contact page — we typically respond within one business day.