Mystery Vintage EIG Italy Switchblade/Stiletto

[JebusChest]

Alright, so I can't seem to identify what model switchblade this is. Just picked it up in a flea market in the middle of nowhere for $20, and it does have some damage to the wood along with a slight downward bend in the tip (which is why the blade looks nubby in the picture) that's easily fixable, but the spring and lock are both in excellent condition.

So my question is, can any of you figure out the model, age, price, etc.? The EIG Italy stamp is present, however it doesn't have the oval ring around the lettering that most of the knives I looked up had. The guys at /k/ were (naturally) not much help.

EDIT: Measurements are 8" overall w/ 3 1/2" Blade

[Bill DeShivs]

Late 1950s transitional model.
Handle is cow horn-not wood.

[JebusChest]

Late 1950s transitional model.
Handle is cow horn-not wood.

Wow, I didn't think it was that old, is it worth repairing the cow-horn?

[leighdog]

Its a picklock isnt it?

[JebusChest]

Its a picklock isnt it?

I believe so, yes, I'm guessing the bend in the tip is from using it for exactly that purpose. If I seem a bit ignorant, it's mostly because I don't know a thing about knives.

[Bill DeShivs]

"Picklock" refers to the way you close the knife. You "pick (up) the lock (backspring.)
With that much blade loss, from sharpening, I don't believe it would be cost-effective to replace the horn.

[JebusChest]

"Picklock" refers to the way you close the knife. You "pick (up) the lock (backspring.)
With that much blade loss, from sharpening, I don't believe it would be cost-effective to replace the horn.

Good to know. Also, what did you mean by "Transitional model"?

[john]

I believe the transitional models were made in the time period between the old stlye of manufacturing and the way they are made today. They had both old and new parts or a combination of old style manufacturing and today's style. For example "D" stamp liners and swivel bolsters as opposed the old method would be D stamp and picklock. Today's knives have the rocker pinned to the non D stamped liner and swivel bolsters and or other variations.
Please correct me or feel free to add to the definition of Transitional Stilettos.

[Bill DeShivs]

Plus materials, different blade grind, etc.

[JebusChest]

Thanks for the info, guys. So bottom line, is it anything special or just a nice little knife to hold onto?

[Bill DeShivs]

I would just keep it.

[JebusChest]

Good enough for me.

[fastr19]

These are all EIGs.

[Panzerfaust]

For 20 bucks you did very well but I agree with what others said and would just leave it as is.

[Viking45]

I agree,I would have gave 40 bucks just to say I have a vintage EIG in my collection.

Mr. Faster19 any of those rusty ole knives going for 20 bucks?
I always love to see pics of the older stilettos. It is interesting to see the placement of the button and the "short-throw" of the lock.