Leatherman Wave Review by Nutnfancy

A best selling multi-tool for years running, the Wave has most of the utility to get you out of "fix it " jam. For its capability it is compact and the toolset is elegantily designed. The Wave can be categorized as a medium duty multi-tool (MDMT) but it weighs a substantial 8.6 ounces. Almost identical to the my much-favored Leatherman Charge series, the Wave dispenses with fancier handle materials and goes for more affordable stainless steel grips. Interestingly, you will take no carry penalty for it weighs exactly the same as the Leatherman Charge, any model. However the main blade materials are different. Expect to find a 420HC steel main blade in the Wave and its shape demonstrates the proper way to form a MT blade: classic flat ground clip shape with a good precise tip and excellent cutting belly. It arrives sharp but the 420HC should be expected to dull quicker than the Leatherman Charge 154CM and S30V upgraded alternatives. Some minor relieve angle grinding differences are still noted on these Leathermans at times. It practical terms it won't matter much however. This well-designed blade like the other important tools are accessible quickly from the exterior without opening up the Wave. Ahhhh, the elegance of another well-designed and quality executed MT. The serrated sheepsfoot blade can rescue cut (cut seat belts and clothing w/o injuring person), and the combo diamond file and hollow ground saw work well for their size. A "two dimensional" full sized bit driver provides almost unlimited driving capabilities with if you have good selection of bits (one included but Leatherman bit kits are affordable and ride within the sheath).

Downsides on this bit holder would be the shortness of reach and the bits can extract when driving. But I'll still take it for its versatility and preciseness. An extension is available and carries in the sheath as well. A mini-bit driver is also included in the Wave and provides a rare commodity in a MT this size. You will be a favorite with the ladies when you can fix their eyeglasses. A double ended and very useful phillips/flat bit comes included for this mini bit holder. The scissors are small but stout and can cut leather, cloth, and cordage. Other tools include a can opener (with wire stripper) and long shank flat blade driver/ light duty pry bar. A perfect carry clip or lanyard ring attaches solidly if you need it.

The sheath to the Wave is also excellent and both nylon versions shown are my preferred choices for their multiple attachment methods, inner elastic pockets, lightweight, and ability to dry out quickly. Leather sheaths are available. As of 2011 bright SS and blackened versions of the Wave were available (shown). Still lacking in this MT is the a punch/awl although I show my solution for that miss in the video. For daily carry a Leatherman Juice S2 is still my constant companion and for bigger tasks I often carry the Charge with its better steel and cooler handles.

But the Leatherman Wave achieves almost the same levels of cool for me. It is aTNP Hall of Famer multi-tool for its extreme high value for the quality and utility achieved.//////////////////////////////Nutnfancy Likability Scale: 10 out of 10 /////////////////////Music: Partners in Rhyme