My step-by-step plan to secure a Leatherman Arc from a US store that usually blocks Hong Kong buyers
Table of Contents
The hype behind the MagnaCut steel Leatherman Arc
Early in 2026, I realized that my old multi-tool just wasn't cutting it anymore. I had been reading about the Leatherman Arc, the first multi-tool to incorporate premium MagnaCut steel. For someone like me who values durability and edge retention, this was a massive upgrade. The MagnaCut blade is a game-changer because it offers high corrosion resistance and toughness without sacrificing sharpness, making it a favorite for EDC enthusiasts globally.
I noticed that the Arc isn't just a knife; it includes 20 different tools, including a bit driver and the smooth magnetic opening mechanism. My goal was to add this specific piece to my collection, but finding a reliable source in Hong Kong that didn't mark up the price by 50% was proving difficult.
Why I looked toward US retailers for my gear
When I checked local specialized importers and high-end outdoor shops in Hong Kong, the prices were staggering. Even compared to specialized importers in other regions like India, where prices are notoriously high, the US retail price remained the most attractive. I found that by using a freight forwarder, I could access the same prices that American residents pay.
By opting to shop US store websites directly, I was looking at savings of nearly $100 USD even after considering the costs of moving the item across the Pacific. I decided that a direct US purchase was the only logical way to acquire the Arc without feeling like I was being taken advantage of by local markups.
The hurdle I faced with cancelled orders and blocked cards
My journey hit a snag almost immediately. I tried to purchase the Leatherman Arc from a major US outdoor retailer, but my transaction was flagged. I quickly learned that many top-tier US stores—much like Nike, Sephora, or Apple—have strict security protocols. They often block international credit cards or simply decline any order that is being sent to a known package forwarding address.
I tried two different Hong Kong-issued credit cards, and both times, my order was cancelled within minutes. It is a frustrating reality for many of us in Hong Kong trying to access the US market. These stores prefer domestic payments, and if your billing address doesn't match a US zip code, you are often out of luck.
My secret weapon for difficult US stores
I wasn't ready to give up, so I turned to a service I had heard about through the EDC community. I decided to use comGateway and their "BuyForMe" service. This was the exact solution I needed for the "blocked card" problem.
Here is how we did it: I provided the link to the Leatherman Arc I wanted, and comGateway acted as my proxy. They used a US domestic credit card to buy the item on my behalf. Because the payment came from a US card and was being sent to a domestic address, the retailer processed the order without any issues. This is the safest way to guarantee that an order doesn't get cancelled by picky retailers who are wary of international buyers. It removed all the stress of wondering if my order would actually ship or if my funds would be tied up in a pending transaction for weeks.
How I handled the logistics from the US to Hong Kong
Once comGateway purchased the tool for me, it arrived at my tax-free US address in Oregon. This part of the plan was crucial because it meant I didn't have to pay any US sales tax, which further increased my savings. I was able to manage everything through their international shipping service portal.
Before I committed to the final leg of the journey, I used the shipping calculator to see exactly what the costs would be. Since the Leatherman Arc is relatively small and light, the shipping fees were very reasonable. I followed the how it works guide on their site to consolidate a few other items I had ordered, which helped me save even more on the total weight. The package arrived at my door in Hong Kong just six days after it left the US warehouse.
Common questions about my purchase process
I’ve received a few questions from friends about how this works, so I’ve compiled a quick list of answers. If you have more specific questions, I recommend checking the FAQ on the service provider's website.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is it legal to ship multi-tools to Hong Kong? | Yes, generally multi-tools are fine, but always check current local customs regulations regarding blade lengths and locking mechanisms. |
| Will the BuyForMe service work for any US store? | It works for most major retailers that typically decline international cards, including specialty tech and outdoor stores. |
| How long does the whole process take? | In my experience in 2026, it took about 10 days from the initial BuyForMe request to having the tool in my hand in Hong Kong. |
By using a dedicated parcel forwarding service, I was able to bypass all the usual headaches of international shopping. If you are tired of seeing "Order Cancelled" emails, I highly suggest trying the assisted purchase route for your next high-end gear acquisition.
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