For over a quarter-century, Leatherman has been synonymous with crafting innovative tools that effortlessly tackle a diverse range of tasks. At the forefront of their distinguished lineup stands the Leatherman Wave+, their most popular multi-tool, revered by adventurers, outdoor enthusiasts, DIY aficionados, and seasoned construction professionals alike. It has firmly established itself as the quintessential all-in-one, portable, and utterly reliable solution for anyone who demands functionality at their fingertips. Such is the ingenuity of its design that it has earned a permanent place in the esteemed collection of the Modern Museum of Art in New York City, a testament to its blend of form and exceptional utility.
The Wave+ isn’t just a tool; it’s a legacy of innovation refined. Building upon the success of its acclaimed predecessor, the original Leatherman Wave, this iteration introduces significant enhancements that elevate its performance, durability, and user experience. Whether you’re navigating the wilderness, undertaking a home improvement project, or simply need a dependable companion for everyday challenges, the Leatherman Wave+ is engineered to exceed expectations. Let’s delve into what makes this iconic multi-tool an indispensable addition to any toolkit.
What is the Leatherman Wave+?
The Leatherman Wave+ is a meticulously engineered multi-tool, ingeniously combining 18 essential functions into a single, sleek, and supremely portable device. Its design prioritizes accessibility and safety, featuring a one-handed opening mechanism that allows for swift deployment of crucial tools like the knife blades without needing to unfold the entire unit. This rapid access is invaluable when time is of the essence or when one hand is occupied. Furthermore, a robust locking mechanism ensures that each deployed tool remains firmly in place during use, providing unparalleled stability and reducing the risk of accidental closures or injuries. This commitment to secure operation underscores Leatherman’s dedication to user safety.
For convenient storage and transport, the Leatherman Wave+ comes with a rugged nylon sheath, designed to protect the tool and keep it readily accessible on your belt or in your pack. A built-in lanyard ring offers an additional layer of security, allowing you to tether the multi-tool to your gear, preventing loss during demanding activities. This thoughtful inclusion highlights its utility for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals alike, ensuring the tool is always at hand when needed most.
Consistent with the esteemed reputation of all Leatherman products, the Wave+ is celebrated for its exceptional craftsmanship and enduring durability. Constructed from a sophisticated blend of high-grade materials, including 420HC stainless steel for general-purpose blades and 154CM stainless steel for superior edge retention on cutting tools, along with black oxide finishes for enhanced corrosion resistance on certain models, this multi-tool is built to perform optimally in even the most challenging conditions. Each component is meticulously assembled to withstand rigorous use, making it a reliable partner for years to come. Such is the company’s confidence in its product’s longevity that every Leatherman Wave+ is backed by an industry-leading 25-year warranty, a testament to its uncompromising quality and a promise of lasting performance.
Leatherman Wave+ Features: A Closer Look at its Versatility
Despite its remarkable versatility, the Leatherman Wave+ maintains an impressively compact profile. When closed, it measures a mere 4 inches in length and less than 1 inch in thickness, making it an ideal candidate for everyday carry (EDC) without adding unnecessary bulk. The engineering marvel lies in how Leatherman manages to integrate 18 distinct, highly functional tools into such a streamlined package. This careful design ensures that you have a comprehensive workshop in the palm of your hand, ready for any unexpected task. The Wave+ includes the following indispensable tools:
- Needle-nose Pliers: Perfect for gripping small objects, bending wire, or performing intricate tasks in tight spaces.
- Regular Pliers: For general gripping, holding, and twisting of larger items.
- Premium Replaceable Wire Cutters: A significant upgrade, these cutters are designed for precision and can be easily swapped out if they become dull or damaged, greatly extending the tool’s lifespan.
- Premium Replaceable Hard-wire Cutters: Specifically engineered for tougher wires, offering robust cutting power and also replaceable.
- Electrical Crimper: Essential for electrical work, allowing for secure crimping of wires.
- Wire Stripper: Designed for safely stripping insulation from various wire gauges.
- 420HC Knife: A high-carbon stainless steel blade known for good edge retention and corrosion resistance, ideal for general cutting tasks.
- 420HC Serrated Knife: Excellent for cutting through fibrous materials, ropes, or seatbelts with ease.
- Saw: A sharp, aggressive saw blade perfect for cutting wood, plastic, or bone in survival situations.
- Spring-action Scissors: Remarkably sharp and spring-loaded for effortless cutting of paper, fabric, fishing line, or bandages.
- Ruler: Integrated into the handles, providing quick measurements in both inches and centimeters.
- Can Opener: A reliable tool for opening canned goods in the field or at home.
- Bottle Opener: Always useful for opening beverages.
- Wood/Metal File: For smoothing rough edges on various materials.
- Diamond-coated File: Ideal for sharpening blades, fine-tuning metal, or working with hard materials.
- Large Bit Driver: Compatible with Leatherman’s diverse range of interchangeable bits for various screw types.
- Small Bit Driver: For precision work with smaller screws, such as those found on electronics or eyeglasses.
- Medium Screwdriver: A fixed screwdriver for common tasks.
The design philosophy behind the Wave+ emphasizes user convenience, particularly with its one-handed opening mechanism for specific tools. This means that blades and pliers can be rapidly deployed with a simple flick of the wrist, a critical feature when you’re working in challenging environments or under time pressure. However, to maximize its compact form, most of the Wave+’s other tools are cleverly tucked away within its handles, typically requiring two hands to open and engage. Once a tool is selected and positioned, a robust locking mechanism automatically engages, securing it firmly in place. This prevents accidental retraction or closure during strenuous use, enhancing both safety and efficiency, allowing you to concentrate fully on the task at hand without concern for tool stability.
A standout feature of the Leatherman Wave+ is its innovative replaceable wire cutters. Unlike many multi-tools where dull or damaged cutters render the entire tool less effective, the Wave+ allows for quick and easy replacement of the cutting inserts. This not only extends the overall lifespan of your multi-tool but also ensures that your cutting performance remains consistently sharp and reliable. This feature alone represents significant long-term value. The compact size and lightweight construction of the Wave+ further enhance its practicality, making it an effortless companion to carry daily. It serves as a highly efficient and far more practical alternative to hauling around a cumbersome, heavy toolbox for minor repairs or quick fixes. The included puncture-proof nylon sheath provides secure storage, protecting the tool from elements and ensuring it’s ready for action whenever you are.
How We Tested the Leatherman Wave+ in Real-World Scenarios
From the moment the Leatherman Wave+ was unboxed, its exceptional quality was immediately evident, fully justifying its premium price point. The meticulous craftsmanship is palpable, with top-grade stainless steel components integrated into an ingenious, highly functional design. Weighing approximately 8.5 ounces, it certainly has a noticeable heft when carried in a pocket or on a belt loop. However, this weight is a reassuring indication of its robust construction, signifying that each of its 18 tools is built to perform reliably and effectively. When folded, the Wave+ measures a mere 4 inches long and 1 inch wide, making the feat of cramming such a comprehensive array of functional tools into so small a package nothing short of remarkable engineering.
Accessibility is a key design consideration. The multi-tool’s serrated saw blade and razor-sharp plain-edge knife can be effortlessly deployed with a simple flick of the thumb, thanks to their external placement and thumbholes. This quick access is a crucial advantage in situations requiring immediate cutting power. However, to access the Wave+’s other 16 features, a two-handed operation is generally required. While this might be a minor inconvenience for some, especially those with limited mobility or visual impairments, it’s a design trade-off for overall compactness and tool security. It’s advisable to familiarize yourself with the opening mechanisms of less frequently used tools before embarking on critical tasks. Having your multi-tool prepared and ready for action is always preferable to fumbling to free the spring-loaded scissors precisely when they are most urgently needed.
Once a tool is correctly extended and positioned, a robust automatic locking mechanism firmly snaps into place. This is a crucial safety and performance feature, providing immense confidence during use. Throughout various rigorous tests—including sawing through small pieces of wood, assembling and disassembling furniture, and bending and crimping electrical wires—the deployed tools never once budged. This steadfast stability is paramount, eliminating concerns about an errant blade retracting or a screwdriver head slipping while you’re concentrating on the task. Furthermore, when tools are folded away, they remain securely stowed. This thoughtful design prevents accidental cuts from exposed blades when using pliers or pokes from screwdriver tips while attempting to open a can, ensuring user safety at all times.
The pliers component of the Wave+ showcases exceptional versatility, featuring different sets of teeth designed for various gripping tasks. The finely-machined needle-nose section at the tip boasts medium teeth, perfect for precisely gripping small objects or maneuvering delicate components. Moving towards the center, larger teeth provide a powerful grip for tackling stubborn nuts, bolts, and larger fasteners with ease. At the base of the pliers are the flat wire cutters, a highly practical and easily replaceable feature. This allows users to quickly swap out dull or damaged cutters, maintaining optimal cutting performance without needing to replace the entire tool. The ergonomic design of the handle ensures a comfortable and secure grip, enabling users to apply significant force and leverage to their work without discomfort or slippage.
Among the comprehensive array of 18 tools, the integrated ruler was perhaps the only component found to be less than perfect. However, this is arguably the least critical aspect where the Wave+ could falter. The accuracy of the ruler is largely dependent on precise positioning, and given that the markings are spread across the two adjustable handles, achieving absolute certainty in measurements can be challenging. For a quick, “eyeball” measurement in an emergency or when rough estimation suffices, it performs adequately. But for tasks demanding exact precision, a dedicated tape measure or ruler would undoubtedly be the more appropriate tool. This minor quibble, however, does not detract from the overall outstanding performance and utility of the Leatherman Wave+.
Pros of the Leatherman Wave+
- Outstanding Quality and Craftsmanship: Made with premium 420HC and 154CM stainless steel, ensuring exceptional durability and longevity.
- 18 Tools in One Compact Package: Offers unparalleled versatility, providing a solution for almost any minor repair or task.
- Nearly Indestructible Stainless Steel Construction: Built to withstand harsh environments and rigorous use, backed by a 25-year warranty.
- Tools Firmly Lock in Place: Enhances safety and stability during operation, preventing accidental retraction or closure.
- Compact and Easy to Carry Along: Its streamlined design makes it ideal for everyday carry without being cumbersome.
- Performs Small Tasks Without Compromise: Each tool is designed to be fully functional and effective, not just an afterthought.
- Replaceable Wire Cutters: A significant advantage, extending the life of the tool and maintaining cutting efficiency.
- One-Handed Opening for Key Tools: Provides quick access to blades and pliers, essential in time-sensitive situations.
Cons of the Leatherman Wave+
- Pricey Investment: Its premium features and quality come at a higher cost than some other multi-tools, though justified by its performance and durability.
- Most Tools Need Two Hands to Access: While external tools are one-handed, internal tools require two hands, which can be a minor inconvenience in some scenarios.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Leatherman Wave+
Does the TSA allow Leatherman multi-tools in carry-on luggage?
According to the official TSA website, passengers are strictly prohibited from traveling with any multi-tools that include knives in their carry-on luggage. This rule applies to the Leatherman Wave+, which features two sharp knife blades. If you intend to bring your multi-tool with you on your travels, it must be securely packed in your checked luggage. However, multi-tools that do not contain knives and have scissors with blades shorter than 4 inches are generally permissible in carry-on bags. Always check the latest TSA guidelines before flying.
Is Leatherman made in the USA?
Yes, Leatherman products proudly bear the “Made in USA” distinction. The company has a rich history of manufacturing all its high-quality tools in its facilities located in Portland, Oregon. This tradition dates back to its founding in 1983 by Tim Leatherman himself (yes, that is indeed his real name!). This commitment to domestic manufacturing ensures stringent quality control and supports local craftsmanship, contributing to the brand’s reputation for excellence.
What Other Reviewers Had to Say About the Leatherman Wave+
The overwhelmingly positive reception for the Leatherman Wave+ is a testament to its quality and utility. Five-star reviewer, Shane M. Mckavanagh, unequivocally states that the Leatherman Wave+ is the “only multi-tool worth the money.” He elaborates on his long-standing loyalty, writing, “I got my first Leatherman Wave in 2010, I believe. Up until the day I lost it, I used it daily. I felt lost without it. You don’t realize how versatile this tool is until you have used one. It’s not overly heavy or cumbersome, and it doesn’t have a bunch of useless tools like some other brands. I love the Wave and if I ever lose this one, you better believe I will be buying another the same day.” This review perfectly encapsulates the sense of indispensability that many users feel once they incorporate the Wave+ into their daily routine.
Another verified purchaser, W. Jobe, expresses profound admiration, raving, “I am blown away with how great the craftsmanship is on this mechanical piece of art. It is durable, versatile and great to look at. I care about the knife, pliers, scissors and can opener. I feel prepared anywhere I go now. I love the way the knives are easily accessible on the outer portion of the Wave. I love the heft it has. Purchase this!!! If you’re a man and a son, you need this!!” These sentiments highlight not only the functional benefits but also the aesthetic appeal and the empowering feeling of preparedness that the Leatherman Wave+ instills in its users.
Product Comparison: Leatherman Wave+ vs. its Predecessor
The Leatherman Wave+ represents a significant evolution of the beloved original Leatherman Wave, incorporating key enhancements that solidify its position as a superior multi-tool. One of the most impactful improvements in the Wave+ is the introduction of premium replaceable wire cutters. This critical feature allows users to easily swap out dull or damaged cutter inserts, drastically extending the lifespan of the tool and ensuring consistently sharp cutting performance. This is a substantial upgrade from the fixed cutters on the original Wave, where cutter degradation often necessitated a more complex repair or even replacement of the entire tool.
Furthermore, the construction materials have been elevated. The Wave+ features a higher grade of premium stainless steel, particularly for its crucial blades. The plain and serrated knife blades are now crafted from 154CM stainless steel, renowned for its exceptional edge retention and superior corrosion resistance compared to the 420HC steel primarily used in the original Wave’s blades. This upgrade means your blades will stay sharper for longer, requiring less frequent sharpening and offering enhanced performance in demanding tasks.
Beyond material upgrades, the Wave+ includes several functional additions absent in its predecessor. It boasts an integrated electrical crimper tool, providing added utility for those involved in electrical work. The spring-action scissors have been refined for smoother operation and greater cutting precision. Moreover, the retractable blades on the Wave+ now feature convenient thumbholes, making them even easier and quicker to open with one hand compared to the original Wave’s design. Finally, subtle yet important ergonomic refinements, such as slightly more rounded edges, make the upgraded Wave+ more comfortable to hold and handle during extended periods of use, reducing fatigue and improving overall user experience.
Final Verdict: Why the Leatherman Wave+ is an Unbeatable Choice
In the expansive market of multi-tools, the Leatherman Wave+ stands as an undisputed champion. Its combination of robust construction, ingenious design, and comprehensive functionality sets a benchmark that few competitors can match. Whether you are a seasoned professional who relies on tools daily, an adventurous spirit exploring the great outdoors, or a casual DIY enthusiast tackling household fixes, the Wave+ is an indispensable asset. Even if you don’t consider yourself particularly “handy,” this multi-tool is a remarkably smart addition to your glove compartment, backpack, or even a kitchen junk drawer. Its ability to condense 18 highly effective tools into a sleek, compact form factor means it takes up significantly less space than a bulky toolbox, offering unparalleled convenience and preparedness for life’s many unexpected challenges.
The Wave+ is more than just a collection of tools; it’s a commitment to readiness, durability, and American craftsmanship. Its 25-year warranty underscores Leatherman’s confidence in its enduring quality, ensuring that your investment will serve you faithfully for decades. For anyone seeking a reliable, versatile, and expertly crafted multi-tool that truly delivers on its promise, the Leatherman Wave+ is not just a recommendation—it’s an essential acquisition.
Where to Buy the Leatherman Wave+
The Leatherman Wave+ multi-tool retails for an MSRP of $120, a price reflective of its premium materials, exceptional craftsmanship, and the unparalleled 25-year warranty that accompanies it. This beloved multi-tool is widely available from various reputable retailers, ensuring you can easily acquire one for your personal or professional needs. You can purchase the Leatherman Wave+ directly from the official Leatherman website, guaranteeing authenticity and direct manufacturer support. Additionally, it is available through major online retailers such as Amazon, offering convenient shopping and often competitive pricing. For outdoor and adventure enthusiasts, the Wave+ can also be found at specialized retailers like Backcountry, where it’s a popular choice for adventurers. We have a strong feeling that once you experience the sheer utility and reliability of the Leatherman Wave+, you’ll want one not just for your workbench, but also for your car, your desk, your backpack, and virtually wherever else you might find yourself needing the legendary multi-tool of all multi-tools.