Leatherman Wave Plus Multitool Review

The Leatherman Wave Plus remains the gold standard of everyday carry multitools for tech enthusiasts and DIYers alike. With its premium replaceable wire cutters and 18 lockable tools, it packs maximum utility into a highly portable form factor. Discover why this iconic stainless steel workhorse continues to dominate the EDC market in 2026.

Key Specifications

Design & Build Quality

The Leatherman Wave Plus continues to boast the exceptional build quality that has made the brand a staple in the everyday carry (EDC) community. Forged from high-grade 420HC stainless steel, the chassis feels incredibly robust without becoming a burden in the pocket. Weighing in at 8.5 ounces and measuring an exact four inches when closed, it strikes a near-perfect balance between substantial durability and pragmatic portability. Whether finished in raw stainless or the tactical black oxide coating, the Wave Plus retains a sleek, utilitarian aesthetic that appeals to tech hardware enthusiasts and tradespeople alike.

Ergonomics are where the Wave Plus truly outshines its predecessors and rivals. The rounded edges of the handles ensure that applying heavy pressure to the pliers or cutters doesn’t translate into painful hotspots in your palm. Furthermore, the outside-accessible primary blades—the plain edge, serrated knife, saw, and file—can be deployed with a single hand using the thumb holes. This frictionless, one-handed operation is a critical design triumph for users who often find themselves multitasking in server rooms, under desks, or out in the field.

Performance

When it comes to real-world performance, the Wave Plus operates with the precision of well-optimized hardware. The standout upgrade—the premium replaceable wire cutters—slice through everything from standard copper wiring to tougher CAT6 ethernet cables with zero hesitation. Unlike older models where damaged cutters meant sending the whole unit in for repair, the Wave Plus allows you to swap out dulled blades in seconds, significantly extending the tool’s lifespan for IT professionals and tinkerers handling heavy cabling workloads.

Deployment speed is another metric where this multitool excels. The phosphor bronze bushings allow the primary 420HC knife to glide open swiftly and lock with a satisfying, secure click. In terms of torque and tension, the internal tools—including the micro-bit driver perfect for eyeglass or small electronics repair—handle substantial rotational force without warping. The pliers themselves meet precisely at the tip, offering a needle-nose grip tight enough to pull out microscopic splinters or manipulate tiny jumper pins on a motherboard.

Features & Software

While a mechanical multitool lacks traditional digital software, the Leatherman Wave Plus features a modular “hardware ecosystem” that functions much like an open-source platform. The proprietary bit driver acts as the primary interface, allowing users to swap out standard Phillips and flathead bits for Torx, hex, or Pozi drives. By purchasing the optional Leatherman Bit Kit, tech-savvy users can vastly expand the tool’s compatibility, effectively “updating” their device to handle proprietary laptop screws, server rack hardware, or drone components.

Furthermore, all 18 tools on the Wave Plus are fully locking. This mechanical “fail-safe” ensures that whether you are aggressively sawing through a thick branch or torqueing down a stubborn chassis bolt, the implement will not unexpectedly fold back onto your fingers. This overarching focus on safety and modularity makes the Wave Plus a highly adaptable platform tailored to your specific daily requirements.

Value Proposition

Priced competitively in the sub-$120 bracket in 2026, the Leatherman Wave Plus offers an exceptional return on investment. When you consider that you are getting 18 distinct, highly functional tools backed by Leatherman’s legendary 25-year warranty, the cost per use drops to pennies over the lifespan of the device. It bridges the gap perfectly between budget-friendly entry-level tools that wear out quickly and ultra-premium titanium models that cost twice as much for only marginal weight savings.

Compared to buying dedicated standalone pliers, knives, and bit drivers, the Wave Plus is a masterclass in space and cost efficiency. For the minimalist IT tech or the weekend warrior, consolidating a heavy toolbag into a single belt-worn or pocketable chassis is invaluable.

How It Compares

When pitted against the Victorinox SwissTool Spirit X, the Wave Plus holds a distinct advantage in one-handed deployment and bit-driver customizability, though the Victorinox edges it out slightly in terms of rust resistance and a high-polish finish. Compared to its bigger sibling, the Leatherman Surge, the Wave Plus is significantly lighter and more pocket-friendly. The Surge is a heavy-duty powerhouse better suited for construction sites, while the Wave Plus remains the undisputed champion for general tech, EDC, and lighter industrial tasks due to its optimal size-to-utility ratio.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• The premium replaceable wire cutters greatly extend the lifespan of the tool.
• Outside-accessible blades allow for rapid, one-handed deployment.
• The modular bit driver system makes it incredibly versatile for tech and electronics repairs.
• The 25-year warranty guarantees excellent long-term peace of mind.

Cons

• At 8.5 ounces, it can feel slightly heavy for unsupported pocket carry without a pocket clip.
• The proprietary bit system means standard hexagonal bits won’t fit without purchasing an additional adapter.
• The 420HC steel blade requires more frequent sharpening than higher-end S30V steel options.

FAQ

Q: Can I carry the Leatherman Wave Plus on an airplane?
A: No, the Wave Plus features locking knife blades and saws, making it prohibited in carry-on luggage by the TSA. It must be placed in your checked baggage.

Q: Does the Wave Plus come with a pocket clip?
A: Out of the box, it comes with a nylon or leather sheath. The pocket clip and lanyard ring are sold separately as an add-on accessory.

Q: What makes the “Plus” different from the original Wave?
A: The primary difference is the inclusion of premium replaceable wire cutters, whereas the original model had integrated cutters that could not be swapped when dulled.

Q: Is the tool completely rust-proof?
A: It is highly rust-resistant thanks to the stainless steel construction, but not entirely rust-proof. It requires occasional cleaning and light oiling, especially after exposure to saltwater or high humidity.

Verdict

The Leatherman Wave Plus is the definitive multitool for IT professionals, DIY enthusiasts, and everyday carry aficionados who demand uncompromising utility and modularity. Its robust construction, replaceable wire cutters, and versatile bit driver system make it a reliable companion for fixing everything from server racks to camping gear. If you can only own one multitool in 2026, the Wave Plus remains the absolute best choice for balancing weight, cost, and maximum capability.

Where to Buy