The first rizzuto also known as the “pre-rizzuto” is a well designed and built knife. Measuring 10.5 inches not including the bale, this was Japan’s entry into automatic knives. Lightweight and hard firing, the first rizzutos were unique and reflected Japanese innovation. The steel was hardened and the scale material was tough bakelite. The knives …
There are exceptions to every rule and that idea certainly applies herein. These are images of one of the first Korean Rizzuto style knives. It is distinguished by the lack of a peek guard. It is also tang stamped with the Bell Metals logo. There are two examples pictured here, both of which measure the …
An uncommon Japanese Rizzuto Estileto Milano variation is the rectangular or “coffin” bolster. This particular one is 9 inches and has the mustache guards. The scale material on this knife is denser and less glossy than that seen on later rizzutos. With that and its rectangular top bolsters, this is likely a 1st generation rizzuto.
The 11 inch batwing is among the less common rizzuto knives and more desired. Batwing rizzys were made in the full arc of production. The “pre-rizzutos” were batwing, 1st generation examples and 2nd generation with blade stamps, rounded bolsters and acrylic scales are all seen. This example sports the shiny black beautiful black scales, rounded …
These are among the earliest of the korizzy knives. The scales are smooth, bayonet blade and has the classic peek guard.
This size is less common than the 9 inch standard guard. This variation appears to be a later knife with none of the characteristics such as step bolsters and bakelite scales. The 11 inch rizzuto with standard guards are not often seen.
The 7 inch rizzutos are a less common build. Black is the most common color and they typically had standard guards. This particular one has step bolsters and heavier scales suggesting it was earlier and made in the 1960s.
This variation measures 6 inches open length. With its step bolster and guardless design, it is likely an earlier knife. These are difficult to find and quite desirable. These came in black, blue, gold and green as well. Will try to find some images of the variety.
This is perhaps one of the most frequently encountered of the rizzuto knives. It stands to reason that of all the rizzys, these were produced in the greatest numbers. The standard guard is as seen in the images below. Black is the most common and after that is harder to find white. There are also …
The 6 inch rizzuto with finger guard is a rare variation. These feature white pearl acrylic scales.
