Just picked up a Benchmade 523 SBK Presidio.The 520 series is my favorite from Benchmade and I think the 523 is a great addition. Fit and finish is perfect, blade centered, smooth action, great lockup, sharp as hell, etc... Pretty much what you expect from Benchmade and the 520 series.
The 523 is identical to the 520, except for its Tanto blade. It appears the tanto may make a stronger blade in this case. I compared the 523 to my 520 side by side and the tanto maintains its full .115" thickness much further out towards the tip than the 520. Blade lengths are identical. Truly a tank of a knife. Not much to add, as most previous reviews of the 520 probably apply here too. If you like the 520 series and you like tantos check this one out.
http://www.benchmade.com/products/product_detail.aspx?model=523
The 523 is identical to the 520, except for its Tanto blade. It appears the tanto may make a stronger blade in this case. I compared the 523 to my 520 side by side and the tanto maintains its full .115" thickness much further out towards the tip than the 520. Blade lengths are identical. Truly a tank of a knife. Not much to add, as most previous reviews of the 520 probably apply here too. If you like the 520 series and you like tantos check this one out.
http://www.benchmade.com/products/product_detail.aspx?model=523
