Leatherman Wave Review by Nutnfancy

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Published 2011-05-04

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

All Comments (21)

@betterbsure 10 years ago

Great review as usual, I had a leather wave which I bought in 1998-9?. Through some heavy handed use I broke the can opener in half. That was about 5 years ago, I didn't use it much after that as I was so annoyed it was not complete. In December 2013, I contacted their warranty address and sent it off hoping they would repair it. They didn't, instead I received a brand new latest version model as a full replacement...Yippee! It rocks! Will treat this with much more consideration from now on.
@NickSparkss 12 years ago

This is going to sound hugely creepy, but anytime I'm working on university papers or assignments, I throw on one of your playlists because it's nice to have some non-obnoxious background noise. So I appreciate the 20min reviews, especially the multitool and knife ones. Thanks Nutn!
@4elFROMEKB 13 years ago

My God, i'm new here as a TNP'er, but a two month is anough to be blown away bu the work you're doing. TNP is not you primary job, yet you posting vids extremely often and they all are great!
@yota87truck 8 years ago

Leatherman warranty is phenomenal. I have used the wave for years in the field (Landscaping). I have broken off some of the little screw drivers and damaged the pliers from misuse. Sent it in for repair multiple times and it came back in new condition no questions asked.
@ucmanne 12 years ago

Bought the wave today in black. Love watching this review and fondling with my MT at the same time!!!! keep it up
@AirForceAce3571 12 years ago

I'm the same way man. Nutn's videos make great background noise and they help get me through an afternoon at the office :)
@Wolf-427 13 years ago

This was my first LM. I absolutely love it. Thanks for the great new video. TNP is a life changer.
@Tonhu2002 10 years ago

I love the sound emitted from the tool when its knife is fully opened.
@schorschinaporsch 11 years ago

Just picked up a wave as my first multitool. Very pleased so far.
@shawnschoonmaker 8 years ago

Just got the Wave in the mail, today. It's a good day.
@SuperFanny12345 13 years ago

YES! I was seriously looking at a purchasing a good quality MT for the first time(owned many department/hardware store knockoffs) when i came across the wave yesterday at amazon for 60$. I couldnt resist. Today i turn on my computer and see a nutnfancy 10/10 review. What perfect timing!
@tohopka11 13 years ago

Just upgraded from the Skeletool to the Wave. Couldn't be happier! Will be on my side all the time. Great review as always.
@asheradensein 13 years ago

I love the Charge AL. Favorite multi-tool that I wouldn't even know existed without Nutn. Thanks for the awesome videos, man!
@deramuskyle1 8 years ago

found one of these in good condition at a local pawnshop, no clip but a nylon belt carry case. $20 so far Im loving it
@ImerzOnline 13 years ago

I picked one up at a yard sale a few years back for $3. Best yard sale buy I've ever had. Just love it.
@AlexanderWolf 13 years ago

I just got my Wave and i loved it!! Leatherman fan from now on......
@benhaven 10 years ago

I'm so glad i watched this video. I had two original Leathermans which have walked off. I think the Wave and the Juice fit my needs. Thanks Nutn!
@Edwardlewis18 12 years ago

Love TNP! Thanks for all your work and reviews Nutnfancy!!! I hope I get a Wave for Christmas!
@organizedpreparedness3444 8 years ago

The best EDC multitool! I've carried mine almost every day for 6 years.
@PatriotsNFL1 13 years ago

Reviews like this are what made Nutn what he is today. Perfect review