This knife was introduced in 1940 and primarily used by Russian recon and para-units.  During its production life there were many variations in the grip material and design, as well as variations in the sheath material and design.  However the basic specifications remained the same. The most interesting feature is the reverse "S" finger guard.  Russian soldiers were taught to hold the knife blade side up when fighting; this makes the reverse "S" finger guard very practical.

The finger guard is blackened steel and the grip is one piece black painted wood with a blackened metal reinforcing ring next to the finger guard.  The sheath is a basic, but very practical, black leather with a metal reinforced tip and leather reinforced throat.  Fits belts up to 3-1/2" wide.