Original Stiletto White 28 cm kris

Product detailed description

The Frank Beltrame Italian Stiletto is an authentic Italian automatic knife that embodies one of the most recognizable knife designs ever created. Known from classic films and deeply rooted in the history of southern Europe, the Italian stiletto has become synonymous with terms such as switchblade, automatic knife, and automatic stiletto. Manufactured in Maniago, Italy, the historic center of Italian knife making, each knife reflects generations of traditional craftsmanship combined with reliable mechanical construction.

The dagger-style blade is produced from W.1.4034 (AISI 420) stainless steel, heat treated to approximately 56 HRC. This proven blade steel offers good corrosion resistance, reliable toughness, and easy maintenance, making it well suited for both collectors and enthusiasts of traditional automatic knives. The symmetrical dagger blade profile emphasizes the iconic appearance of the classic Italian stiletto while providing excellent rigidity and precise point control. Its polished finish further enhances the timeless elegance of this historic design.

The automatic mechanism follows the traditional Italian construction that has made these knives famous worldwide. A stainless steel or nickel silver safety lock prevents accidental opening, while the centrally positioned release button instantly deploys the blade using a powerful stainless steel spring. The mechanism delivers the unmistakable action expected from an authentic Italian switchblade and remains faithful to the original designs produced in Maniago for decades.

The handle features durable white polymer scales, giving the knife a clean, elegant appearance while offering excellent dimensional stability and resistance to everyday wear. Internally, the knife utilizes brass liners and pins, combined with a stainless steel spring that ensures consistent operation over many years of use. Every component is carefully fitted by hand, preserving the traditional manufacturing methods that distinguish genuine Italian stilettos from mass-produced alternatives.

Each Frank Beltrame knife is individually assembled by hand in Maniago, Italy, never by automated production. This commitment to traditional craftsmanship ensures that every knife possesses its own unique character while maintaining the high quality associated with one of Italy's most respected makers of classic automatic knives.

Specifications

Overall length: 28 cm

Blade length: 12.5 cm

Blade steel: W.1.4034 (AISI 420) stainless steel, approx. 56 HRC

Handle material: White polymer

Blade style: kris

Safety lock: Yes

Handmade in Maniago, Italy

Blade style: Kris

The Kris blade is inspired by the traditional Malay weapon with its distinctive wavy blade profile, originating from the island of Java. It is regarded as one of the oldest edged weapons of Southeast Asia and gradually spread throughout the Indonesian archipelago, where individual islands developed their own characteristic blade shapes, handles, and scabbards. Today, the Kris remains one of the most recognizable traditional blades in Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Brunei.

Beyond its practical function, the Kris holds deep cultural and spiritual significance. According to local tradition, it is believed to possess protective and mystical qualities, and many people regard it as a symbol of good fortune, prosperity, and personal protection. Throughout history, Kris daggers were often passed down through generations as treasured family heirlooms and ceremonial objects.

Historically, the Kris was also used as a combat weapon and became associated with the Filipino martial art of Eskrima, where warriors of the Samal and Yakan tribes valued its unique blade geometry for delivering highly effective cutting and thrusting attacks. Even today, the Kris remains part of traditional martial arts training and cultural demonstrations, preserving its status as one of Southeast Asia's most iconic bladed weapons.