Stiletto Switchblades…a Brief History.

The stiletto switchblade originated in Italy, which you may have already figured out since they are often referred to as “Italian Stilettos.” ( insert 9 or 11 inch Italian stiletto switchblade link here) The word “stiletto” comes from the Latin word “stilus,” as in a stylus, iron pen, or pencil. These writing tools were thin and pointy, similar to the blade shape you find on a stiletto knife.

They were also popular in the Middle Ages when knights would use them in battle usually as a secondary weapon to finish off their enemies. Due to their pointy tips and often unsharpened edges, stilettos were typically used for stabbing, not for cutting or slashing.

After WWII American soldiers returning home from Europe brought home these switchblades, they would become known as the Italian stiletto switchblades.

These Italian stilettos used a new style blade, a slender bayonet blade with a single ground dagger edge that had an opposing false edge.

Most people that own Italian stilettos usually own them just for collecting purposes. These stilettos have multiple variations in handle material and blade design.

Some of these blade designs include:
Flat grind, bayonet, dagger, and kriss blades.

Some popular handle materials are:
Acrylic, wood, animal horns, mother of pearl, and abalone. Just to name a few.

Switchblades became vilified in the 50’s, Due to their popularity with street gangs and because they were featured in the movie “Rebel without a Cause” starring James Dean.

However in recent years more and more states are reconsidering their opposition to these knives.

Most states now allow these knives to be owned as curios or collectibles.
A few states even allow them to be carried.

To see if collecting switchblades is for you, or if you have any questions about switchblades.