Beckwith's Blades

"The swords that we sell are practical martial art swords that are meant to be used in cutting and drawing practice," Beckwith said. "They are made in traditional Japanese fashion. Some are forged, but many of them have folded steel blades."

Beckwith's Blades gets a good portion of business from law enforcement officers in various agencies looking for knives. While predominantly males shop at the store, there are some female collectors as well.

The busiest times of the year are at the beginning of spring, around Father's Day and at Christmas.

"We get big bumps those times of the year, but business is pretty consistent throughout the rest of the year, too," Beckwith said.

Another side of business comes from shoppers looking for long-term food storage and general preparedness items. Beckwith's Blades sells specific first aid kits for hunters and kayakers, among other niches. The store also provides a knife sharpening service.

The couple started selling knives and swords at gun shows in 2000 and opened their first store in 2003 before moving to the current location in 2010.

The Beckwiths are both avid collectors of swords and bladed weapons. Since they collect as well as sell, the couple loves to help customers with their collections or bladed interests, Beckwith said.

For out-of-town customers, the store stocks many items listed on its website so there is little wait before orders are shipped, usually the following work day.

Beckwith's Blades recently set up shop at a home and garden show, selling first aid and food supplies. The business also displays its wares at gun shows and hunting shows. In total, the store plans on selling at more than 30 events this year.

Customer care

If it concerns a knife or sword, Beckwith's Blades is glad to help customers any way it can including:

• Finding custom knives and antiques
• Locating a repair facility
• Buying replacement sheathes
• Resolving warranty issues with a manufacturer

Beckwith's Blades, 7356 Hwy. 290, Ste. A, Jersey Village 713-466-4300, www.beckwithsblades.com