Dawson Knives Relentless Sword 17in Review

Here’s What I Think of the Dawson Knives Relentless Sword 17in

The Dawson Knives Relentless Sword 17in is an imposing blade, clearly designed for serious work where durability and cutting power are paramount. Dawson Knives has a reputation for robust, no-nonsense tools, and this large fixed blade certainly fits that mold. I was in the market for something that could handle heavier tasks than my usual EDC, something that wouldn’t flinch when faced with significant material removal or the need for a substantial chopping tool, without sacrificing too much in terms of refined edge geometry. After looking at several options, from other custom makers to some higher-end production knives, this particular model from Dawson caught my eye due to its stated material and the sheer presence it conveys. My first impression upon unboxing was one of solid construction; the weight felt substantial and well-balanced, and the materials exuded a sense of rugged reliability, not a hint of unnecessary ornamentation, just pure function.

The need for a more robust blade arose from a recent project involving clearing dense underbrush on a property line and some occasional heavy-duty camp chores that my smaller knives simply weren’t built for. I’d been making do with what I had, but the limitations were becoming increasingly apparent, leading to excessive effort and the nagging worry of potentially damaging a less capable tool. I briefly considered some other large fixed blades, including a few machete-style options and a different, similarly sized American-made knife from a well-known manufacturer, but they either felt too specialized or lacked the perceived toughness of the CPM-3V steel advertised here. The initial reaction was a quiet sense of satisfaction; it felt like I had finally found a tool that could genuinely meet the demands I had in mind.

Real-World Testing: Putting Dawson Knives Relentless Sword 17in to the Test

My testing began in a decidedly unglamorous but very real-world scenario: clearing a patch of overgrown brambles and saplings that had taken over a neglected corner of my workshop’s exterior. This involved significant chopping, batoning through thicker branches, and general rough handling. I also used it for some basic camp craft preparations, like processing firewood and creating shavings for fire starting, albeit in a controlled backyard setting. The weight and length of this sword-like knife made it surprisingly effective for limbing branches and efficiently clearing vegetation, much more so than a standard fixed blade of smaller dimensions.

Through repeated impacts and exposure to the elements (a light drizzle and some damp wood), the Dawson Knives Relentless Sword 17in held up exceptionally well. The initial edge retention was impressive, and it only began to show minor signs of dulling after extended periods of hard use, which is to be expected with any blade under such stress. Its ease of use was more about learning to wield its considerable size effectively; it’s not as intuitive as a smaller knife, requiring a conscious effort to manage its momentum and balance, but once accustomed, it feels surprisingly controllable. A minor quirk was the grip’s texture; while secure, it can become a bit abrasive with prolonged, vigorous use without gloves, something I’ll address later.

After several weeks of sporadic but demanding use, this substantial fixed blade continues to impress with its resilience. It has tackled tasks ranging from splitting larger firewood rounds (with the aid of a solid baton) to general yard work and even some light carving for craft projects. The CPM-3V steel has proven to be incredibly tough, showing no signs of chipping or cracking despite significant prying and chopping efforts. Maintenance has been straightforward; a quick wipe-down after use, a light oiling of the blade to prevent rust (standard practice for carbon steel), and periodic sharpening have kept it in prime condition. Compared to some budget-friendly, oversized knives I’ve used in the past, which often developed loose handles or dulled very quickly, this model feels in a different league altogether.

Breaking Down the Features of Dawson Knives Relentless Sword 17in

Specifications

The Dawson Knives Relentless Sword 17in boasts a formidable 17-inch Hamon finish CPM-3V carbon steel blade, giving it a total overall length of 26.75 inches. This is a significant blade, designed for leverage and power. The use of CPM-3V is a standout feature; it’s renowned for its exceptional toughness and good edge retention, making it ideal for hard-use knives that need to withstand significant stress.

The handle is constructed from Ironwood, a dense and durable hardwood, which is then wrapped in black synthetic silk. This combination offers a unique aesthetic and a potentially firm grip, though the synthetic silk wrap might be a point of consideration for users preferring a more traditional or tactile grip material. The knife is full tang, meaning the steel of the blade extends all the way through the handle, which is absolutely critical for a tool of this size and intended application, providing maximum strength and preventing breakage under heavy loads.

The inclusion of both a black Kydex and a brown leather scabbard is a practical and valuable addition, offering options for different carrying preferences and situations. Kydex is known for its durability and secure fit, while leather offers a more traditional look and feel. The fact that it comes boxed suggests it’s intended for retail and would make for a presentable gift for the right recipient.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary job – cutting and chopping – the Relentless Sword 17in performs admirably. The 17-inch blade, combined with the inherent toughness of CPM-3V, makes quick work of wood processing and vegetation clearing. Its primary strength lies in its chopping power, where it excels due to its length and weight distribution.

However, for very fine detail work or intricate tasks, its sheer size becomes a limitation. The edge, while sharp out of the box, is geared more towards durability and robustness than razor-fine slicing capabilities, which is typical for a blade of this nature. It meets expectations for a heavy-duty tool but would fall short if one were expecting the performance of a dedicated bushcraft knife or a finer EDC blade.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is undeniably utilitarian and purpose-built. The Ironwood handle provides a solid foundation, and the black synthetic silk wrap adds a layer of texture that, while secure, can feel a bit slick and less tactile than bare wood or a textured synthetic grip, especially when wet or during very long, strenuous sessions. The full tang construction is evident in the overall solidity; there’s absolutely no flex or give in the blade when subjected to stress.

Ergonomically, wielding this blade is a two-handed affair for most tasks, due to its considerable length and weight. It requires a deliberate grip and body mechanics to control safely and effectively. The weight, while contributing to its chopping ability, can also lead to fatigue over extended periods of continuous use, so managing its ergonomics means understanding its inherent heft.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the CPM-3V steel and full tang construction, the durability of the Relentless Sword 17in is expected to be exceptionally high. CPM-3V is a premium tool steel chosen specifically for its outstanding toughness and resistance to chipping and breaking, making it suitable for applications where other steels might fail. I have experienced no signs of wear beyond what one would expect from normal sharpening on the edge.

Maintenance is relatively straightforward, though the carbon steel blade does require more diligent care than stainless steel. Regular cleaning and oiling are essential to prevent rust, especially in humid environments or after exposure to moisture. The Ironwood handle is durable, but like all natural materials, it can benefit from occasional conditioning. The synthetic silk wrap is largely maintenance-free, but I would be mindful of how it might wear or fray with extreme abrasion.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Dawson Knives Relentless Sword 17in comes with a valuable combination of a black Kydex sheath and a brown leather sheath. This provides versatility, allowing users to choose the material and style that best suits their needs or the specific situation. The Kydex offers a secure, modern retention system, while the leather provides a classic, perhaps more comfortable, carry option.

Beyond the included sheaths, there are limited customization options for the knife itself due to its fixed design and specialized materials. The Ironwood handle and synthetic silk wrap are part of its core identity. While one could potentially re-wrap the handle, it’s generally not a common modification for a knife of this type and price point. The real “customization” comes from choosing the right sheath for the task.

Pros and Cons of Dawson Knives Relentless Sword 17in

Who Should Buy Dawson Knives Relentless Sword 17in?

The Dawson Knives Relentless Sword 17in is best suited for individuals who require a heavy-duty, robust cutting tool for demanding outdoor tasks. This includes homesteaders clearing land, serious campers who anticipate significant wood processing, bushcraft enthusiasts who need a primary tool for heavy chopping, or anyone needing a durable, large blade for rugged work. Those who appreciate the superior toughness and edge retention of premium carbon steels will find this blade appealing.

However, individuals looking for an everyday carry knife, a tool for fine woodworking, or those who prefer lighter, more maneuverable blades should look elsewhere. Anyone sensitive to the maintenance requirements of carbon steel or those who primarily work in wet environments without consistent cleaning protocols might also want to reconsider. For those whose primary need is efficient vegetation clearing and wood processing, this sword is an excellent choice, but a good pair of work gloves would be a highly recommended complementary item for extended use.

Conclusion on Dawson Knives Relentless Sword 17in

The Dawson Knives Relentless Sword 17in is a formidable piece of cutlery, built with purpose and executed with a commitment to durability. Its CPM-3V blade and full tang construction offer confidence in its ability to handle the most demanding tasks, while the inclusion of both Kydex and leather sheaths adds significant practical value. It undeniably excels at chopping and heavy clearing, making it a superb choice for serious outdoor work.

However, its sheer size and the maintenance requirements of its carbon steel blade mean it’s not a universally applicable tool. For its intended purpose, however, the price point of $1079.95 is justified by the premium materials and robust construction. I would readily recommend this model to anyone who needs a truly heavy-duty chopping and clearing tool and understands the responsibilities that come with owning and maintaining a high-performance carbon steel blade of this caliber. It’s a tool that inspires confidence through its sheer capability.