Vintage Soviet CCCP Officer-Style Multi-Tool Pocket Knife – Brass Scales – USSR – Circa 1950s–1960s

This vintage officer-style multi-tool pocket knife from the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics is a striking example of mid-century Soviet craftsmanship—ornate, utilitarian, and unmistakably Cold War in character. Designed as a compact field and service tool, this knife reflects the practical needs of Soviet officers, engineers, and professionals during the post-war decades, blending function with symbolic decoration.

The heavy brass handles are richly stamped with repeating geometric motifs and feature a central CCCP emblem on one side, affirming its Soviet origin. The reverse side displays a small animal emblem—commonly interpreted as a rooster—an image associated in Soviet decorative arts with vigilance, labor, and readiness. Additional period markings, including “7P” and “35K,” appear on the handle and are consistent with Soviet-era production or accounting codes seen on mid-century domestic utility knives.

This is a visually compelling and mechanically complex piece—an authentic artifact from behind the Iron Curtain.

🔧 Specs:

Maker: State-produced (USSR)

Country: Soviet Union

Pattern: Officer-style / Gentleman’s Multi-Tool

Tools:

Main blade

Secondary blade

Scissors

Corkscrew

Awl / spike

Hooked utility or pruning blade

Handle Material: Stamped brass

Liners: Brass

Closed Length: Approx. 3 ¾"

Steel: Carbon steel (tools)

Blade Action: Tools open and close smoothly with firm, functional snap

🔎 Condition Note:

This knife is in good, honest vintage condition and presents as a well-used but solid mid-century tool. The scissors are functional, but missing spring. All tools open and close properly, with most exhibiting decent opening and closing snap. There is clear patina, surface wear, and evidence of use throughout, consistent with a working knife of this era. Most tools show a small amount of side-to-side movement (wobble), which is typical for multi-tool knives of this age and construction. Despite this, the knife remains tight overall and structurally sound—an honest worker that wears its history openly.

This knife ships wrapped in acid-free archival tissue to help preserve both the blade and handle during transit and storage.

📜 Historical Note:
During the 1950s and 1960s, the Soviet Union produced a wide range of multi-tool knives for domestic use by officers, tradesmen, and professionals. Unlike Western military issue knives, Soviet officer-style tools often combined decorative elements with practical functionality, reflecting both national symbolism and everyday utility. Brass-handled examples such as this were commonly state-approved productions rather than export items, intended for internal distribution and personal ownership within the USSR.

🧲 Collector’s Note:
Soviet pocket knives are increasingly sought after for their distinctive aesthetic and historical context. This example stands out for its ornate brass scales, clear CCCP marking, and full multi-tool configuration. It represents an authentic slice of Cold War material culture—ideal for collectors of Soviet artifacts, military-adjacent tools, or unusual vintage pocket knives with strong visual presence.

⚠️ Disclaimer:
All knives in this shop are vintage or pre-owned unless stated otherwise. While many are in excellent condition, they may show normal signs of age or handling such as scuffs, blemishes, patina, or blade wear. I try to document condition as accurately as possible in both the description and photos.
By purchasing this knife, you are confirming that you are 18 years of age or older and are complying with all applicable laws and regulations regarding knife ownership in your area.