RPK 19cm Russian Prison Knife Big Cat Red Leaf spring vintage automatic knife

Vintage RPK 19cm Russian Prison Knife Big Cat Red Leaf spring automatic knife. It is believed that these knives were made by inmates of prisons in Russia (USSR) between 1950s and 1970s to generate income for the prisons and to be used as gifts/bribes by guards and prison personnel. This is a cool little knife that measures 19.2cm (7.5 inches) open and 4 inches closed with brass liners and plated brass bolsters with steel button. The hollow ground saber clip blade appears to be 99% full, or better and shiny with light scratches and no markings (sterile). The scales are red synthetic material in great condition and the bolsters are sculpted to look like a large Cat (lion) I believe, but looks like there may have been some damage and repair that makes it hard to be sure. It's a little tricky to close because the release to close is 2 tabs that sit next to the bolsters that you have to push down on. The knife works well with blade tip below liners closed, good snap and good lockup with about 1/16 inch movement at the tip. Does not rattle if shaken when open. VG+ condition.