Rizzuto Estileto Milano 9 inch Japanese swing guard switchblade

Vintage Rizzuto Estileto Milano 9 inch open 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 the most common size and the most common color, black. 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. This knife measures 21.8cm (8 5/8 inches) open with steel liners and bolsters with brass button and safety cap. The bayonet style blade is about 98% full with factory finish and some light scratches and the tang is stamped STAINLESS STEEL and RIZZUTO ESTILETO MILANO is stamped below the spine. The black synthetic scales are in good condition with light scratches and marks from handling. The knife works well with the blade tip below the liners, good snap and very good lockup open. The safety does work. Nice example of a vintage "Italian style" movie prop switchblade. EX condition.