Leatherman Wave+ Review: Is It Still the King of Multitools?
The Good
- Replaceable 154CM wire cutters (essential for longevity)
- Outside-accessible blades (can deploy knife without opening pliers)
- Diamond-coated file is aggressive and capable
- Perfect size/weight ratio for belt carry
The Bad
- Proprietary flat bits are annoying (hard to replace if lost)
- No pocket clip included (must buy separately)
- Ruler stamped on the handle is hard to read
If you ask 100 survivalists to pick one tool to carry for the rest of their lives, 80 of them will pick the Leatherman Wave+. It is the benchmark by which all other multi-tools are measured.
But in a world of lightweight specialized gear, does a heavy lump of steel still make sense?
The "Plus" Upgrade: Why It Matters
The original Wave had one fatal flaw: if you cut a hard wire (like a coat hanger) and dented the wire cutters, the pliers were ruined forever.
The Wave+ adds Replaceable 154CM Wire Cutters.
- The Test: We cut through a 12-gauge chain-link fence wire. The cutters snapped through. If they ever dull, you can unbolt them and swap in a fresh pair for $10. This turns the tool from a "disposable" item into an heirloom.
Real-World Performance
1. The Blades (420HC)
You get two blades: a straight edge and a serrated edge.
- One-Hand Opening: You can flick them open with your thumb without opening the pliers. This is critical if you are holding onto a ladder or rope with your other hand.
- The Serrated Blade: It rips through seatbelts and fibrous rope instantly.
2. The Saw
This is not a toy. The teeth are aggressive. We sawed through a 2-inch pine branch in about 45 seconds. It is essential for making notches in shelter building.
3. The Bit Driver
Leatherman uses "flat" bits to keep the tool slim.
- The Good: It makes the tool compact.
- The Bad: If you lose the bit, you can't just use a standard bit from your drill set. You have to buy Leatherman bits.
Comparison: Wave+ vs. The Competition
| Feature | Leatherman Wave+ | Leatherman Surge | Gerber Center-Drive | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Weight | 8.5 oz | 12.5 oz | 9.5 oz | | Blade Steel | 420HC | 420HC | 420HC | | Scissors | Small (Okay) | Huge (Excellent) | None | | Driver | Proprietary Flat | Proprietary Flat | Standard Center Axis | | Best For | EDC / General | Tradesmen / Heavy Duty | Mechanics |
The Verdict: The Surge is better if you have huge hands or work construction. The Gerber is better if you screw things in all day. The Wave+ is the perfect middle ground for everyone else.
How to Carry It
At 8.5oz, it is heavy in a gym short pocket.
- Belt Sheath (Included): Durable nylon. Fits the tool well.
- Pocket Clip (Sold Separately): Leatherman sells a clip that snaps on. It works well for jeans/work pants.
The Good
- Replaceable wire cutters extend the tool's lifespan significantly
- All locking tools (safer than slip-joint Swiss Army Knives)
- Diamond file can actually sharpen other knives in the field
- 25-Year Warranty is legendary and real
The Bad
- Heavy (you know it's in your pocket)
- Black oxide coating (if chosen) scratches easily
- Scissors are tiny compared to Victorinox
Final Verdict
The Leatherman Wave+ is not the best knife, nor the best pliers, nor the best screwdriver. But it is the second best of everything, wrapped in a package that fits on your belt. In a survival scenario, versatility beats specialization.
Rating: 4.9/5 Stars Recommended for: EDC, Bug Out Bags, Vehicle Maintenance.