Finding a tonneau cover that’s both tough and easy to use isn’t always simple.
The Pace Edwards Switchblade Manual Retractable gives you the best of both worlds – aluminum strength with simple operation.
What makes this cover special is how it rolls up into a compact canister, giving you full bed access in seconds.
Built right here in America with quality materials, it’s designed for truck owners who need reliable protection without the hassle.
Let’s dive into what makes the Switchblade worth considering for your truck.
Pace Edwards Switchblade Manual Retractable Tonneau Cover Specifications
- Brand: Pace Edwards
- Material: Aluminum with Vinyl
- Finish: Vinyl Grain
- Opening Style: Manual Retractable
- Installation: No-Drill
- Warranty: 2 Year Limited
- Made In: USA
- Best For: Truck owners who want quick bed access and don’t mind manual operation
Pros and Cons
Pros
- No-drill installation means you can set it up in minutes without permanent changes to your truck
- Compact canister design takes up minimal bed space when retracted
- ArmorTek overlay bonded to aluminum provides serious weather protection
- Continuous tension spring makes opening smooth and effortless
- Built-in drainage system channels water out of your bed automatically
- Made in America with quality components that are built to last
Cons
- Manual operation means no remote control convenience like some premium covers
- Two-year warranty is shorter than some competitors offer
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Set It Up Yourself in Minutes
The no-drill installation is a game-changer for most truck owners. You only need a Phillips head screwdriver and a 7/16 inch wrench to get this cover mounted.
This means no permanent holes in your truck bed rails. If you ever want to remove it or switch to something else, your truck stays original.
The whole setup takes just minutes, not hours. You won’t need to take time off work or pay someone else to install it.
Being able to remove it quickly also means you get full bed access for those times when you need to haul something tall.
Built Tougher Than It Needs to Be
The aluminum panels with ArmorTek overlay aren’t just for looks. This weather-resistant polymer is bonded right to the aluminum, creating a finish that can handle whatever nature throws at it.
You won’t see this cover cracking, fading, or peeling after a few seasons in the sun. The materials are chosen to last, not just look good in the showroom.
Aluminum gives you the strength you need without adding unnecessary weight to your truck. It’s the same material used in aircraft, so you know it can handle daily use.
This is the kind of build quality that makes you feel good about spending your money.
Takes Up Almost No Space When Open
The compact canister design is what sets the Switchblade apart from bulky folding covers. When you retract it, you get nearly your entire bed back.
This matters when you’re hauling plywood, appliances, or anything else that needs the full bed length. You’re not losing 18 inches like you would with some folding covers.
The canister sits low and out of the way, so it doesn’t block your rear window view either. You almost forget it’s there when it’s retracted.
For truck owners who actually use their beds for work or hauling, this space-saving design makes all the difference.
Keeps Everything Bone-Dry
The drainage system is where this cover really shows its engineering. Water doesn’t just sit on top – it gets channeled through the mounting rails and out of your bed.
Drainage tubes carry excess water away, so you’re not dealing with puddles or rust issues. Your gear stays dry even in heavy rain.
The weather seals work with the drainage system to create real protection. This isn’t just a cover that keeps most of the water out – it keeps all of it out.
You can trust this cover to protect expensive tools, electronics, or anything else you need to keep dry.
Opens and Closes Like Butter
The continuous tension spring does all the heavy lifting for you. A gentle push is all it takes to get the cover rolling back into its canister.
No fighting with stubborn panels or struggling to get things lined up. The spring keeps tension consistent, so operation stays smooth even after years of use.
Closing is just as easy with the convenient pull strap. One pull and your bed is covered and secured in seconds.
This smooth operation means you’ll actually use the cover instead of leaving it open because it’s too much hassle to operate.
Easy Access Whenever You Need It
The pull strap makes closing the cover effortless, even when you’re in a hurry. No need to walk around the truck or reach over awkwardly.
The strap is positioned where you can grab it naturally, and the cover responds immediately. This makes it practical for daily use, not just special occasions.
You can partially open the cover too, giving you access to part of your bed while keeping the rest covered. This flexibility is perfect for different loading situations.
Having a cover that’s this easy to operate means you’ll actually keep your stuff protected instead of leaving it exposed because the cover is too much work.
How We Rate the Pace Edwards Switchblade Manual Retractable Tonneau Cover
Weather Protection: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The ArmorTek overlay and built-in drainage system provide excellent weather protection. Water gets channeled out through the rails and drainage tubes, keeping your bed completely dry. The weather seals work as advertised.
Build Quality & Durability: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Aluminum construction with polymer overlay shows quality engineering and materials. Made in America with attention to detail. The two-year warranty is decent but not as long as some premium competitors offer.
Ease of Operation: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The continuous tension spring makes opening effortless, and the pull strap closure is simple and reliable. This cover is genuinely easy to use every day, which is what matters most for practical truck owners.
Installation Ease: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
No-drill installation with basic tools means anyone can set this up in minutes. Being able to remove it quickly for full bed access is a huge advantage over permanent installations.
Bed Space Efficiency: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The compact canister takes up minimal space when retracted, giving you nearly full bed access. It’s much better than folding covers but still takes up some room at the front of the bed.
Value for Money: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Good value for a retractable cover with quality materials and American manufacturing. The price is fair for what you get, though not the cheapest option available.
Overall Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
The Switchblade delivers on its promises with quality construction, easy operation, and excellent weather protection. It’s perfect for truck owners who want reliable daily-use protection without complicated mechanisms. Skip it only if you need remote operation or the longest possible warranty.
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Final Thoughts
The Pace Edwards Switchblade is worth the money if you want a retractable cover that actually works as advertised. The quality materials and smooth operation make it a solid investment.
It’s perfect for truck owners who use their beds regularly and need quick access without removing the entire cover. The weather protection and American build quality give you peace of mind.
Skip it if you want remote operation or need the absolute maximum bed space when retracted. Manual operation isn’t for everyone.
But if you want reliable protection that’s easy to use every day, the Switchblade delivers exactly what most truck owners need.
