[Jim B Williams]

Folks,

My apologies if this has been covered previously… I’m curious as to everyone’s experience with Albion’s production times. Does it vary depending on if a sword is purchased through a vendor (KoA)? I ordered a Steward through Kult of Athena in June and they have been typically pleasant and responsive in their customer service when I’ve inquired a couple of times about the order’s status; however, they can’t be very specific since they are the middle man. Albion was very cryptic in their response, which is understandable since I am not a direct customer. However, I was just looking for a general timeframe since 2-3 months was what both Albion and KoA estimated before I made the purchase.

I’m not complaining, I’m just curious if Albion prioritizes orders made directly through them or if they just have very unpredictable production forecasts. I’ve commissioned custom arms before and even done custom leather work (18th century) so I know it’s difficult to accurately predict these things. I guess I figured Albion might be able to give better estimates since they aren’t working with custom specs, hand forging, etc.

Thanks for any insight!

[William Swiger]

I do not think there is a difference if ordering directly or through KOA. My understanding is they go out the door in the order they receive the order.

There will be events that will delay orders. One being when a new model has been released and they have to fill all the preorders. Some of those folks have been waiting for years for the concept swords to make it into production. Albion has recently released some new models.

I have bought directly from Albion and have received some of my orders under 3 months and the longest wait was around 7 months. During normal business without new releases, average was 3 months.

KOA now advertises a 3-6 month wait on orders.

[David Lewis Smith]

I have bought from both KOA and Albion. Mike from Albion is on speed dial on my phone.

I bought my Discerner from KOA because it was in stock. It would be a six week wait with albion while they made it. KOA will also have on their webpage if something is backordered

I love dealing with Albion but some times KOA is faster or they have a 'deal'

[Brandt Giese]

Last 3 years I have purchased 4 swords directly from Albion and all were delivered within 3 months.

[Patrick Kelly]

My deliveries from Albion have varied from one month to over five years.