Welcome to Kai Shop’s FAQ section. As purveyors of premium cutlery since 1908, we’ve compiled answers to the questions we hear most from professional chefs and cooking enthusiasts worldwide. Can’t find what you need? Our knife experts are always available at [email protected].
About Our Products
What makes Kai Shop knives different from other kitchen knives?
Our knives combine centuries-old Japanese forging techniques with modern ergonomic design. From our professional-grade Gyuto knives to our specially weighted Chinese chef’s knives, each blade undergoes rigorous quality control. We particularly excel in:
- High-carbon steel construction with optimal hardness (HRC 58-62)
- Precision-balanced handles for fatigue-free use
- Laser-sharpened edges that maintain their bite
- Specialist blades like Deba and Boning knives designed for specific tasks
Do you offer knives suitable for beginners or children?
Absolutely. Our Chef’s knives for children range features rounded tips, lightweight designs, and colorful handles – perfect for budding chefs. For adult beginners, we recommend starting with our versatile 8″ Chef’s knife or exploring our Knife Sets which include essential blade types at accessible price points.
How should I maintain my knives?
Proper care ensures decades of service:
- Regular honing with our Honing steels (weekly for home cooks, daily for professionals)
- Professional sharpening every 6-12 months using our Whetstone accessories or Electric sharpeners
- Hand washing only – never dishwasher
- Storage in blade guards or on magnetic strips
Ordering & Payment
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, JCB) and PayPal for secure global transactions. All payments are processed through PCI-compliant systems with 256-bit encryption.
Can I modify or cancel my order after placement?
Orders processed within our 1-2 business day window cannot be modified. For urgent changes, please email [email protected] immediately with your order number – we’ll make every effort to accommodate your request.
Shipping & Delivery
What are my shipping options?
We offer two premium services from our Canterbury warehouse:
- Standard Shipping (£12.95): DHL/FedEx delivery in 10-15 days with full tracking and signature confirmation
- Free Shipping (Orders >£50): EMS delivery in 15-25 days with basic tracking
How is my order packaged for safety?
Each shipment receives our signature protection:
- Reinforced double-wall cardboard boxes
- Custom foam inserts and air cushioning
- Individual blade guards on all knives
- Climate-controlled storage prior to dispatch
- Discreet outer packaging (no branding)
What if my delivery is delayed?
While 98% of deliveries arrive within quoted times, customs clearance occasionally causes delays. If your tracking shows no movement for 7+ days, contact us with your order number. We’ll investigate with the carrier and keep you updated daily.
Returns & Warranty
What’s your return policy?
We offer a 15-day return window from delivery date:
- Items must be unused, in original packaging with all protective coverings
- Return shipping is at customer’s expense unless item is faulty
- Refunds processed within 5 business days of warehouse receipt
Important: For safety reasons, we cannot accept returns on sharpened or used knives unless manufacturing defects are present.
Do your knives come with a warranty?
All Kai Shop knives carry a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects when used as intended. This covers:
- Material flaws in blades or handles
- Construction failures (loose rivets, etc.)
Account & Technical Support
How do I track my order?
You’ll receive tracking information via email once your order ships. For DHL/FedEx shipments, use their apps for real-time updates including estimated delivery windows. EMS tracking typically updates at major transit points.
Can I create an account to view order history?
Currently, we operate without customer accounts for enhanced privacy. Simply email [email protected] with your order number for historical information. We’re developing an account system for late 2024.
Who should I contact for knife selection advice?
Our master sharpeners and former chef consultants are available via email. Tell us about:
- Your cooking style (Japanese, Western, pastry, etc.)
- Current knife frustrations
- Hand size and strength
- Budget considerations
Still have questions? Our Canterbury-based team is available Monday-Friday 8:00-16:00 GMT at [email protected]. For urgent matters, include “TIME SENSITIVE” in your subject line.
Visit us at:
71 Pound Ln, Canterbury, GB CT3H 7DA