RPK 23cm Russian Prison Knife All metal sliding button Engraved automatic knife

RPK Russian Prison Knife Vintage all metal switchblade knife. It is believed that these knives were made by inmates of Russian prisons between 1950s and 1970s to be sold to raise capital for the prisons and sold or given away as gifts by prison personnel. They are all hand made and very unique and beautiful pieces of Russian cutlery Folk Art. This knife measures 23cm (9 1/16 inches) open and just over 5 inches closed with a steel frame and bolster plates with very nice engraving. The straightback hollow ground blade is full and has all of the original finish with elaborate and beautiful engraving. The knife works well with the blade tip seating deep in the well when closed, smooth strong snap and very good lockup when open with less than 1/16" movement at the tip. Does not rattle when shaken with blade open except for the button. It is button open, button close. Very cool vintage Russian RPK all metal switchblade in nearly new condition.