The Original Presidio
The original Benchmade Presidio 520 is a substantial, distinctly American take on the everyday folding knife, designed by Mel Pardue and built around the early generation of Benchmade’s AXIS Lock platform. With its bold proportions, machined aluminium handle and distinctive multi-directional grip pattern, the Presidio has a character all of its own. This original 154CM version is particularly appealing to enthusiasts and collectors of Benchmade’s earlier models, representing a period when 154CM was a signature blade steel across the company’s range. Made in the USA, it combines a purposeful design with the clean mechanical feel that has become synonymous with the AXIS Lock.
This example is in pristine, as new condition. Complete with original box.
"This is a real time-capsule piece, as new and they just don't make knives like this anymore, it's an absolute tank." - Mr. Narwhal 
Built Like a Tank
The 520 features a 3.42-inch drop-point blade made from 154CM stainless steel, heat treated to approximately 58–61 HRC. Its handle is machined from black anodised 6061-T6 aluminium and reinforced with dual 420J stainless steel liners, with the distinctive milled pattern providing the Presidio’s characteristic grip. An ambidextrous AXIS Lock and dual thumb studs give the knife intuitive one-handed operation, while the reversible steel carry clip allows flexible tip-up pocket carry. At 8.29 inches overall and 5.62 oz in weight, the original Presidio 520 is a notably substantial EDC design with unmistakable Benchmade heritage.
