Request for advice on new Knive/Sword startup

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vanight

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Sep 1, 2004
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Request for advice on new knive/Sword Web site startup

Hello,

I am a Web Developer & System Administrator who just happens to love knives and swords. I am currently developing a knife and sword portal and
an online store for fantasy collectible knives, swords, etc...

What I have a lot of: technical resources, development, servers, etc..
What I don't have: Lots of money to buy inventory

I am looking for a really good place that would be interested in a partnership or even co ownership of the site. Someplace that can get the product at great prices and ship the product on time with the websites name. I have also considered drop shipping like everyone else does but I really want to set myself apart from the "run of the mill" sword site selling crap.

I am looking for a mutual symbiotic relationship with a supplier or someone who deals with real manufactures or even possibly an importer or wholesaler who is shall we say, "lacking" in the way of a professional automated online shop.

Any pointers, brainstorming or referrals would be greatly appreciated!

Sincerely,

David Nightingale
vanight@comcast.net
vanight@go.com (alt)
 
Hello there. There was no message in your text or email address. I am very new to all this though I have been a fan of both guns and knives every since my Grandpa gave me my first Barlow. I wish I hadnt lost that in the fire... damn. Anyway, I am learning a lot just by surfing and reading. What first got my attention was when my wife started getting me the BudK catalogs. I was amazed that they could be selling this stuff so cheap. Maybe you can clear this up for me. I know a lot about Guitars, I have been playing for almost 20 years now. I know a hundred reason why a "Strat" copy is only $100 when a real one can go for over $1000. Is the knife industry the same? EG., you have the "cheapo" "looks cool" manufactures, the mid level to upper level manufactures, then you have the "cream of the crop" which is the guy who has made a name for himself with his craft. He may have a company with some employees and apprentices, or, he may still just work alone and people get what they get when ever he finishes. (Guitars have these guys too)

Im asking you because I looked at some of your other posts and figured out you seem to know a thing or two about this. Thanks!

David
vanight@comcast.net
 
If I might make a few comments...

1) Budk stuff is so cheap because it's junk. Plain and simple. In the world of swords you get what you pay for, no shortcuts.

2) If you are looking to be a distributor for swords you might check with these folks:
www.albionarmorers.com I think they are looking for distributors and they are one of the best companies in the business. Others you might want to look at include www.swords.cz www.armor.com and www.lutel.cz

If you don't have much operating capital I suspect that you are going to have a hard time doing anything but drop shipping.
 
Yes, your right. I do have a connection with a promotional company and think knives with a company logo would be a nice change to the typical things being given away. Anyway, your right, until I have capatil I may be limited to dropshipping. The question is, are their good quality companies that will dropship. I know their are the cheapo knives. Also, if you know of any informational sites where I could learn how to judge or what questions to ask to determine good quality from toy quality, that would be great.

Thanks for all the help!

David
 
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