Rizzuto Estileto Milano 18cm (7 inch) Japanese swing guard switchblade knife

Vintage Rizzuto Estileto Milano 18cm Japanese swing guard automatic knife. These knives were used in a lot of movies from the 1960s through the 90s and are therefore very popular with switchblade & movie enthusiasts. This is a smaller 7 inch size and less common than its 9 inch and larger brothers. These knives were actually made in Japan in the 1960s and 70s mostly and were inspired by Italian switchblades of the era. They were very affordable which is probably why they were often used by movie prop departments.

The knife measures 18cm (7 1/16 inches) open with steel liners, bolsters and guards with brass button, safety & pins with nickel silver decorated lanyard ring. The bayonet blade is stamped STAINLESS STEEL on the tang and RIZZUTO ESTILETO MILANO is stamped along the spine. The blade is 99% full or better with the original finish and some light scratches. The black synthetic scales are in great condition with light handling marks. The knife works well with the blade tip even with the liners closed, good snap and excellent lockup with less than 1/16" movement at the tip open. Safety works. EX- condition.