Privacy Policy

1. Our Commitment to Your Privacy

Your privacy is non-negotiable. Just as we engineer our checkout process for security, we’ve built our data practices with your protection as the foundation. We adhere to applicable privacy regulations including GDPR for European customers, CCPA for California residents, and other global data protection standards relevant to our international community of tactical professionals, outdoor enthusiasts, and collectors.

2. Information We Collect

We collect only the information necessary to provide you with a seamless, secure experience from selection to fulfillment.

Information You Provide Directly:

• Account Information: Name, email address, password (encrypted), and optional profile details when you create an account for faster future purchases
• Transaction Information: Shipping address, billing address, contact number, and payment details processed through our secure payment gateways
• Communication Data: Correspondence with our team at [email protected]
• Preference Information: Product interests, wish lists, and cart contents

Information Collected Automatically:

• Device and Browser Information: IP address, browser type, device type, and operating system
• Usage Data: Pages visited, time spent on site, referral sources, and interaction with our collections
• Location Information: Generalized geographic data (country/region level) to provide appropriate payment methods and shipping options

3. How We Use Your Information

We use your information with precision and purpose, ensuring every data point serves your experience:

• Order Processing & Fulfillment: To process transactions, ship your Benchmade automatics, fixed blades, CRKT folding knives, or toolkits from our HQ in Greensboro, NC
• Customer Service: To respond to inquiries and provide support for your mission-critical gear
• Website Optimization: To improve your browsing and checkout experience, engineered for efficiency
• Security & Fraud Prevention: To protect against unauthorized transactions and maintain the integrity of our global platform
• Communication: To send order confirmations, shipping updates, and (with your consent) information about new collections relevant to tactical professionals, outdoor enthusiasts, and collectors
• Legal Compliance: To meet regulatory requirements and enforce our terms of service

4. Data Sharing and Disclosure

We treat your data with the same care we apply to our precision-engineered products. We share information only when necessary:

Service Providers:

• Payment Processors: Visa, MasterCard, JCB, and PayPal for secure transaction processing
• Shipping Partners: Logistics companies to deliver your gear globally (with limited restrictions in Asia and remote areas)
• Technical Support: Providers who assist with website maintenance and security

Legal Requirements:

We may disclose information if required by law, to protect our rights, or to ensure the safety of our community.

Business Transfers:

In the event of a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, customer information may be transferred as a business asset.

We never sell your personal information to third-party marketers.

5. International Data Transfers

As a global store serving customers worldwide (excluding restricted regions), your information may be transferred to and processed in countries outside your residence. We ensure such transfers comply with applicable data protection laws and that your data receives adequate protection through standard contractual clauses or other approved mechanisms.

6. Data Storage and Security

We employ enterprise-grade security measures to protect your information:

• Encryption: Industry-standard encryption for data in transit and at rest
• Secure Infrastructure: Protected servers with strict access controls
• Payment Security: PCI-DSS compliant payment partners handle all sensitive financial data
• Data Retention: We retain personal information only as long as necessary for business purposes or as required by law
• Employee Training: Our team is trained in data protection principles

7. Your Rights and Choices

You have control over your personal information:

• Access & Correction: Request access to or correction of your personal data
• Data Portability: Request a copy of your data in a structured format
• Deletion: Request deletion of your personal information, subject to legal requirements
• Marketing Preferences: Opt-out of marketing communications at any time
• Account Management: Update your account information through your profile or contact us
• Do Not Track: Our website does not currently respond to “Do Not Track” signals, but you can manage tracking through cookie preferences

To exercise these rights, contact us at [email protected]. We will respond within 30 days, consistent with applicable laws.

8. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

We use cookies and similar technologies to enhance your experience:

Essential Cookies:

• Session management and shopping cart functionality
• Secure checkout process
• Account authentication

Analytical Cookies:

• Understanding how enthusiasts navigate our collections
• Measuring website performance and feature effectiveness
• Improving the user experience for tactical professionals and outdoor adventurers

Preference Cookies:

• Remembering your language and currency preferences
• Storing your recently viewed items for faster access

You can manage cookie preferences through your browser settings. Note that disabling essential cookies may impact your checkout experience.

9. Children’s Privacy

Our products and website are intended for adults. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 16. If you believe a child has provided us with personal information, please contact us immediately.

10. Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to third-party sites, including payment processors and manufacturers. This Privacy Policy applies only to Bladehq Store. We encourage you to review the privacy policies of any third-party sites you visit.

11. Policy Updates

We may update this Privacy Policy to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. We will notify you of significant changes by posting the updated policy on our website with a new effective date. Your continued use of our services after such changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.