Thread: Importing a Knife ?

Looking at getting a new folder.......my new hobby / addiction.
Is it legal / easy to import a knife in from say the states ?
Any drama's with customs or any known issues ?

It’s easy as, so long as it’s not a butterfly, automatic, gravity or flick knife, if it’s a basic folder you should be ok, however if it’s vey expensive then the customs guys may hit you up for quite a chunk.

What are you looking at getting?

I imported an assisted opening knife and it was picked up by customs at landing. They advised how to apply for permit to import via my friendly AO (goes to PNHQ) and eventually got all paperwork ticked retrospectively and I got my $19 knife

Key emphasis is you’re a Collector, and as a FAL holder, you have existing means to ensure safety of said item. You’ll be required to submit in writing why you want said item and the above was advice my AO gave me when preparing my letter. Worked for me!

Note that things apparently ramp up if you import more than one of the same item; that’s when you definitely need to have done your paperwork before importation!

My 5c worth

Thanks guys, that's bullshit on an AO knife when you can get them through Top Gear or Blade Master in NZ , seems strange.
I have really only just started getting into it. I am not a collector, just enjoying using and learning about folders.

Have an Ontario Rat 1 in Aus 8, awesome little knife
Also a Kizlyar Supreme Ute made in Russia, Aus 8 also.

Not sure whats next, just being on the Blade HQ website.....shit what choice. Amazing prices.

Just bear in mind that if you import and you have issues you need to send it back to where you bought it from.
Shipping costs are usually around US$15 - $20 depending on size and weight and if in excess of $400 then local GST and clearance comes into play.

Weigh these up before importing.

Nothing to flash US $50 max

Originally Posted by terryf

Just bear in mind that if you import and you have issues you need to send it back to where you bought it from.
Shipping costs are usually around US$15 - $20 depending on size and weight and if in excess of $400 then local GST and clearance comes into play.

Weigh these up before importing.

Wow where do you import your knives from? The places I look I've never seen shipping below US$30 and usually a lot more - that's what always puts me off buying from overseas.

Originally Posted by WillB

Wow where do you import your knives from? The places I look I've never seen shipping below US$30 and usually a lot more - that's what always puts me off buying from overseas.

knifecenter.com start at USD15.99 which is around NZD22 - again, it depends on size and weight.
I wouldn't buy a $100 and pay $22 shipping though. Might as well support local and be easier for returns, if required.