A drop tower apparatus and method of use is provided. The drop tower apparatus includes a base, a frame, a top member, rails, a sled, a triggering system, and a test fixture. The frame extends from the base. The top member is disposed on the frame opposite the base and has a winch. The rails extend from the base to the top member and are disposed within the frame. The sled is configured to slide vertically along the length of the rails and is releasably connected to the winch of the top member. The test fixture is configured to receive a sample for testing. The winch of the top member raises the sled to a desired height, the sled is released at the desired height and slides along the rails resulting in an impact on a sample placed in the test fixture.