Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do you have a question? Chances are the answer is below. If not, feel free to send us a message!

Products & Condition

What does 'Certified Pre-Owned' mean? This is our quality label. An item with this label has been fully technically inspected and approved by us.

  • Inspection: We manually check whether all functions are working: do mechanical parts open smoothly? Does a lock operate securely? Does pliers connect properly? And for flashlights: do the switches and all light modes work flawlessly?

  • Cleaning: The product is thoroughly cleaned and made completely dirt-free.

  • Maintenance: Where necessary, hinges are lubricated or contact points cleaned. In short: reliable gear that functions perfectly again.

What is the difference between Grade A, B, and C? To accurately indicate the condition of our gear, we use gradings. Technically, they are all 100% in order; the difference lies purely in the appearance:

  • Grade A (As New): The item looks fantastic. Minimal to no visible signs of use. Suitable for collectors or as a premium gift. (This also includes our New-In-Box items).

  • Grade B (Very Good): Normal, light signs of use that you can expect. Think of light scratches on the housing, pocket clip, or blade. Perfect for your daily EDC rotation.

  • Grade C (User / Heavy Wear): Clearly used intensively. Scratches, dents, or signs of wear (patina) are clearly visible. For those who do not consider appearance important, but are simply looking for cheap, indestructible tools.

Are your products truly 100% functional? Yes. Unless it is explicitly stated that it is a defective item (TSS Outlet), everything works as it should. We test every function individually: the pliers close properly, the tools fold open smoothly, the lock is secure, and for electronics (such as flashlights), the battery contacts and LEDs work perfectly.

Do you sharpen or modify the items before they are shipped? No. We thoroughly clean the tools and ensure they work technically perfectly, but we do not machine-sharpen knives, nor do we modify flashlights or accessories. We choose to do this to keep the item as authentic as possible. Many enthusiasts prefer the original factory specifications (even if they have been used) to a product from which unnecessary material has been ground away or tampered with. Therefore, you will receive it in the authentic condition as we found it.

Are your products authentic? Yes, 100%. We sell exclusively original brand products from Leatherman, Victorinox, Olight, and more. Because we clean and inspect every item by hand, we spot any counterfeits immediately. So you don't have to worry about cheap copies; with us, you are buying the real deal .

Where do your products come from? We primarily source our stock through acquisitions from private individuals and collectors. This ranges from someone clearing out their tool drawer to EDC enthusiasts thinning out their collections. We make a strict selection from the items we come across: only those items that meet our quality standards are purchased, inspected, and given a place in the webshop.

Shipping & Delivery

Which countries do you ship to? We ship to all countries within the European Union.

What are the shipping costs?

  • Belgium & the Netherlands: Free shipping on orders over €75. Below this amount, standard rates are calculated at checkout.

  • Other EU countries: Shipping costs are calculated during checkout, depending on the country of destination.

When will my order be shipped? We ship on fixed days: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Did you order on the weekend? Then your package will be shipped on Monday.

Which carrier do you use to ship?

  • Within the Benelux (Belgium & the Netherlands): We ship with PostNL.

  • To the rest of Europe: We ship with DPD.

Will I receive a Track & Trace code? Yes, as soon as your package has been registered with the carrier, you will automatically receive an email with a link to track your shipment.

Do you have a physical store? No, we are a 100% online webshop. We do not have a showroom or a physical address you can visit. By not renting expensive retail premises, we can keep our costs low and offer you the best price for quality gear.

Warranty & Returns

Do I get a warranty on a refurbished product? Absolutely. We believe in our quality. That is why you receive a standard 1-year (12-month) warranty on technical functionality. If a spring breaks spontaneously within that year, a lock fails, or a flashlight suddenly stops working due to an internal defect, we will resolve it (repair, replacement, or a refund). Please note: damage caused by your own improper use (dropping, prying, sawing into nails, leaking batteries) or normal wear and tear is naturally not covered.

Can I return my order? Yes, you have the right to return your order up to 14 days after receipt. The product must be in exactly the same condition as when received. The costs for returning the item are at your own expense. Please notify us of your return in advance via email.

Does the warranty also apply to Outlet products?

  • For the Heavily Used and With Text items, the standard 1-year warranty on technical functionality applies.

  • We provide no warranty on damaged / parts items. You purchase these explicitly at your own risk for parts or craft projects.

Purchasing & Maintenance

Do you also buy gear? Do you have an unused Olight, an old Leatherman, or a collection of EDC gear lying around that you're not using? Feel free to send us an email with photos. We'd love to take a look, and if it fits into our collection, we'll make you a fair offer.

How do I keep my EDC in top condition?

  • Mechanical tools (Multitools/Pocket knives): Rinse away dirt with warm water. Dry the tool very thoroughly (use compressed air if necessary). Put a drop of oil in the hinges (use Ballistol or sewing machine oil; WD40 is only for cleaning, not for lubricating).

  • Flashlights: Keep the contacts and threads clean. Not using a lamp for an extended period? Remove the battery to prevent leakage.

Is your question not listed? Email us at: info@thesecondstandard.com We will respond as soon as possible. No chatbots, no standard answers. Just honest communication.

The Second Standard