Reviews / Multi Tools

Leatherman Wave Plus Review (2026)

Leatherman Wave Plus provides 18 tools including a 420HC knife blade, Needlenose pliers, wire cutters, scissors, and files — all accessible with one hand with outside-opening features. The locking blades handle hard use. It's been the standard multi-tool for 25 years.

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Leatherman Wave Plus — Multi Tools review photo
Illustrative
10
Grant's score
The short version

Leatherman Wave Plus is the most recommended multi-tool by outdoor professionals. We looked at how it compares to Victorinox SwissTool and evaluated the outside-opening feature's daily value.

Who it's for

Buy this if: Anyone who carries one multi-tool for all uses — the Wave Plus replaces a pocket knife, pliers, scissors, and most common screwdrivers.

Skip this if: Minimalists who only need a knife and screwdriver — a smaller Leatherman Micra handles that at half the weight.

In practice

Outside Opening Value

Standard multi-tools (original Leatherman PST, Victorinox) require unfolding the pliers before accessing blade tools. Wave Plus tools on the outside of the handle open with one hand from a closed position — like a folding pocket knife. In camp cooking, quick kit repairs, and emergency use, this single-hand access is meaningful.

What we loved
+ Outside-opening knife and tools without unfolding the pliers+ 420HC steel holds an edge through hard use+ 25-year warranty replacement program
What we'd change
4.0 oz — heavier than pocket knives Some blade tools require two hands despite outside opening
Where to buy

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Links are Amazon affiliate links — we earn a commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you. It never changes our score.

The verdict
10

The correct multi-tool for outdoor use. The 25-year warranty makes it a one-time purchase.

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Common questions

Wave vs. Wave Plus?
Wave Plus adds replaceable cutting blades and wire cutters. The $30 upgrade is worth it.
What's the knife blade steel?
420HC — mid-range stainless that sharpens easily. Not the hardest steel available, but resists corrosion and takes an edge that lasts typical outdoor use.

Methodology: Our gear ratings combine manufacturer specifications with aggregated owner feedback and long-term durability reports from verified buyers. We weigh value, packability, durability, and real-world reliability. Ratings are never influenced by commission rates. Last verified 2026-07-03.

Affiliate disclosure: This review contains Amazon affiliate links. If you buy through them, Gear Made Simple earns a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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