review1 min· Jul 19, 2026
Leatherman Wave+ Review — Still the King in 2025?
The Wave+ has been the default multitool recommendation for over two decades. Does it still deserve the crown?
Overview
18 locking tools, 4.0" closed, 8.5oz. First introduced in 1998, iteratively refined since.
The Tools
Needle-nose pliers, replaceable wire cutters, 420HC plain blade, serrated blade, spring-action scissors, diamond file, and multiple screwdrivers. Every tool locks.
Real-World Use
Three months daily carry: cut zip ties, pulled brads, tightened screws, opened packages, stripped wire. The pliers remain the star.
Verdict: 9/10
Still the king. Not the flashiest, but it nails the fundamentals better than anything at $100-120.