Today, I’d like to talk about the impressive Apache Dawn Knife by TOPS. This review begins a series of product reviews exploring a variety of survivalist tools. So if exploring the Nature wilderness is something that interests you, perhaps one of these items will be what you’re looking for. And who knows… One of these items may save your life. Trust me, the Apache Dawn Knife was designed with the thought in mind of overcoming the greatest odds and conditions this world can provide.
The BLADE: Upon initial inspection, it’s obvious TOPS Knives spared little expense when designing the Apache Dawn: Rockies Edition fixed blade. It’s a serious knife, not meant for the lighthearted. The blade is made of steel, and is advertised as being 101% made in the USA. It’s a gray steel blade, almost marbled in color. TOPS took great care in forging this blade, and it’s obvious upon simply holding and touching the metal. The blade comes sharp, but could use a little time with a whetstone prior to first use.
The HANDLE: The Apache Dawn is a very heavy duty knife. Heavy to hold, and built to last. The handle is made of G10, and feels equally heavy duty, providing it a certain everlasting feel. The ergonomic grip fits snugly in hand, providing optimum control. There are ten ridges that run counter along the length of the handle, allowing for strong handling.
The SHEATH: Made up of a tactical woven fabric, the sheath is a bit thin, but built well overall. And while I would prefer a thick, leather sheath for a blade of this caliber, it’s difficult to aim much criticism at its design and features. Beyond simply keeping the knife safe and the blade hidden away from accidental injury, the sheath has loops to hold to your belt and a thin roping to tie around your leg, as expected. But it is its other features that provide it with even more value. Attached to the bottom is an emergency whistle, and atop the blade’s main compartment, a small pocket avails itself for a sharpener or a smaller fixed blade.
The HANDLE: The Apache Dawn is a very heavy duty knife. Heavy to hold, and built to last. The handle is made of G10, and feels equally heavy duty, providing it a certain everlasting feel. The ergonomic grip fits snugly in hand, providing optimum control. There are ten ridges that run counter along the length of the handle, allowing for strong handling.
The SHEATH: Made up of a tactical woven fabric, the sheath is a bit thin, but built well overall. And while I would prefer a thick, leather sheath for a blade of this caliber, it’s difficult to aim much criticism at its design and features. Beyond simply keeping the knife safe and the blade hidden away from accidental injury, the sheath has loops to hold to your belt and a thin roping to tie around your leg, as expected. But it is its other features that provide it with even more value. Attached to the bottom is an emergency whistle, and atop the blade’s main compartment, a small pocket avails itself for a sharpener or a smaller fixed blade.
My Final Thoughts: While I found the Apache Dawn Knife as being one heck of a blade, it’s not for everyone. If you’re an avid camper and/or wilderness survivalist, then you won’t be sorry if you invested in this blade, but for folks who frequent campsites, yet rarely venture out into the wilderness, you’re likely not in need of a blade as hardcore as this. If that relates more to you, dear reader, then don’t take offense, as none is meant – I would definitely suggest checking out their other knives, however. Designed more with survival, tactical/military, and professional law enforcement in mind, the Apache Dawn is no consumer creature comfort knife. It’s a serious knife and should be treated as such. I found the Apache Dawn Knife as being a premier choice for survivalist fixed blades, and do openly suggest it as a quality option for the right type of traveler.
If you’d like to find out more about TOPS Knives, click here.
Article written & Photos by Brandon Scott / Eye & Pen
If you’d like to find out more about TOPS Knives, click here.
Article written & Photos by Brandon Scott / Eye & Pen
RSS Feed
