- Joined
- Dec 3, 2013
- Messages
- 319
I recently got a Benchmade 520 Presidio. I liked the handle shape and the thin grind which allows for great slicing. There was a slight amount of blade play, yet when I tightened the pivot down it wouldn't allow the blade to swing out of the handle properly. There was no good way to adjust away these problems.
Then I pulled out my 3000 grit polishing pad from 3M that I saw recommended on jdavis189's Youtube channel. I took the knife apart and to my surprise the washers were completely covered in a grimy layer of oxidized garbage. I lightly rubbed the washers in a circular motion until all the junk had been polished away. I then did the same thing on my leather strop until the contact surface truly shone. I lightly did the same to the flat part of the blade tang where it touches the washers. I then put the knife back together. I was able to sufficiently tighten the pivot until there was zero play. the pivot has not come loose despite many openings and closing, and I don't use Loctite. The blade flicks out with ease now, and it also falls under its own weight.
I guess the point of this story is obvious to many who frequent this forum. Knives sometimes require a bit of rejuvenation in order to truly excel. Benchmade remains one of my favorite companies, and I'm happy I was able to maintain my Presidio properly.
Then I pulled out my 3000 grit polishing pad from 3M that I saw recommended on jdavis189's Youtube channel. I took the knife apart and to my surprise the washers were completely covered in a grimy layer of oxidized garbage. I lightly rubbed the washers in a circular motion until all the junk had been polished away. I then did the same thing on my leather strop until the contact surface truly shone. I lightly did the same to the flat part of the blade tang where it touches the washers. I then put the knife back together. I was able to sufficiently tighten the pivot until there was zero play. the pivot has not come loose despite many openings and closing, and I don't use Loctite. The blade flicks out with ease now, and it also falls under its own weight.
I guess the point of this story is obvious to many who frequent this forum. Knives sometimes require a bit of rejuvenation in order to truly excel. Benchmade remains one of my favorite companies, and I'm happy I was able to maintain my Presidio properly.
