RPK 22cm Russian Prison Knife Spartan Soldier automatic knife

Vintage Russian RPK (Russian Prison Knife) switchblade. It is believed that these knives were made by inmates of Russian prisons back in the 1950s through the 1970s to be sold to raise capital for the prisons and given by prison personnel as bribes and gifts. They are all hand made and very unique and beautiful pieces of Russian cutlery Folk Art.  This knife measures 22cm (8.75 inches) open with non magnetic metal frame and steel bolsters. The saber grind clip blade is nearly full and shiny with lots of scratches. Brown synthetic inserts in the frame with elaborately engraved plates and Trojan/Spartan soldier bottom (back) bolsters in overall very good condition. The knife works well with the blade tip seating deep in the well when closed, smooth snap and good lockup open with very little movement at the tip. Button slides to open and to release blade to close. EX condition.