Italian Stiletto The Italian Stiletto, more commonly referred to in the US as a switchblade, has a history of terrifying people. And by history, I mean back in the 1950's people got scared of "criminals" or "hoodlums" that carried this type of bladed weapon. But in reality, put up against other knives, either fixed blade or folder, the stiletto is not really all that intimidating. The knife just got a bad rap from the movies.






This particular knife I don't exactly remember how, when, or why I acquired it, but needless to say, it's a part of my collection. In my opinion, it's not really suited for "everyday carry". Sure it's great for stabbing and slicing, or maybe even getting the little chunks of BBQ out of your teeth from lunch, but it's really just a glorified letter opener. This knife sits on my desk and that's exactly what I use it for. Also, there are varying laws, state to state, regarding "assisted opening" knives (and this one definitely qualifies as that seeing as how it's spring loaded and the blade deploys with the push of a button) so you're better off safe than sorry with this one. Leave it on the desk, not in your pocket.

Handle length is just under 5 inches, blade length is right at 3.5 inches, making the whole thing 8.5 inches while open. The blade is 440 stainless steel, and judging from the imprint on the blade, the knife was manufactured in Milano, Italy. I have no idea what the handles are made of and due to the mystery surrounding acquisition, the above specifications are being made simply from looking at the knife.

Just a cool little piece of an eclectic collection.  ¶ 9:21 PM