Leatherman Wave Plus Review (2026)

By Grant — Last updated 2026-07-03 — multi-tools

Grant's Verdict

10/10 — Best in Class

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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AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE: Links in this review are Amazon affiliate links — we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are never influenced by commission rates.

The Short Version

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

Who This Is 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.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Outside-opening knife and tools without unfolding the pliers
  • 420HC steel holds an edge through hard use
  • 25-year warranty replacement program

Cons

  • 4.0 oz — heavier than pocket knives
  • Some blade tools require two hands despite outside opening

The Detailed Breakdown

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.

Grant's Final Take

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

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Frequently Asked 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 are based on community research across r/camping, r/hiking, r/ultralight, r/backpacking, and r/CampingandHiking, combined with manufacturer specifications and verified owner feedback. We analyze Reddit consensus, common failure patterns reported across multiple platforms, and long-term durability reports. Grant rates based on value, packability, durability, and whether it would survive a trip he's been planning to take for three years. Last verified 2026-07-03.

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