New to multi-tools and looking to buy a Leatherman but you are not sure on what model to buy? Here are my thoughts and experiences based off what I have seen.
I have the Charge TTI, the Wave, The Skeletoo CXl, the Juice CS4, and the squirt PS4. My daily carry is the Wave. I make custom leather goods for a living and every time a customer orders a new pouch or sheath for a different model it gives me an excuse to buy a new one to make the fit perfect. Over 90 per cent of my customers are Wave users, that must say something.
you prolly dont give a shit but does any of you know a trick to log back into an Instagram account?? I was dumb lost the login password. I would appreciate any assistance you can give me.
@Jace Salvador i really appreciate your reply. I got to the site on google and Im waiting for the hacking stuff now. Looks like it's gonna take quite some time so I will get back to you later with my results.
They're the best. I'm 35 and I'm only on my second. I had the Wave for about 15 years and now I have the Rebar. I would still have the Wave if it hadn't been stolen. These things last forever if you don't lose em.
Yessir. They are a great little tool. Had the original Wave (which was stolen) now I the Wave +. Give it a little time they will be $120.00.....$130.00.....
I volunteer with a local no kill animal rescue organization & I've been able to literally save lives a few times with my Leatherman Wave! Also the scissors are invaluable when cutting the name collars we use both putting them on (cutting off the excess tabs) & cutting them off when, for example when they get adopted before I load the pet up in the crate! I LOVE mine! Had 1 stolen from me a while back & had 2 get a new 1 ASAP!
Hi, nice review of the Wave. I just got one for my nephew (I feel like keeping it !👹) You were very thorough in pointing out the different functions and I learned about a couple of new tools I hadn't realized were there! I know my nephew is going to be ecstatic because he's been dreaming about this knife! Cheers~Stella
One of the best EDC tool videos I've seen: It's way too honest and really speaks to the average guy. 👍👍 Let me know if you have an updated video on this topic.
Agree with everything you said. The Wave is the best all around multi-tool available today for the average person. If you can find one for under $100, it is worth it. Adding the $20 bit kit, it becomes a pocket sized toolbox. Although I wouldn't put it in my pocket every day (EDC). There has been numerous times in my life when I have been to single female residences, and have seen simple thing in need of repair. I had not had my Leatherman at the time, but if there was one available at the residence, I could have saved her many hundreds of dollars in repairs if she just had any tools at all, besides a hammer and broken pliers. If single women would buy this with the bit set and just threw it in a drawer for the next altruistic handyman to come along (father, brother, friend, etc.), it would pay for itself dozens of times over the years.
I love the 300. I do hvac and when I don’t want to get a tool out of the truck it works perfect. Wire strippers knife and players also the screwdriver. Use everyday.
You're going to be disappointed, it so much more chunky in the pocket, and don't offer much back... the eyeglass screwdriver is sometimes useful, alto I can't remember last time I needed it.. And the bit exchanger looks cool and all, but often you'll find it cant reach into the narrow slots where the PST's phillips driver fits nicely... If my PST gave up I'd go get my other PST, yea, I got myself a backup.
I bought a PST several decades ago. At the time, it was the coolest thing I'd ever seen. It has been sitting largely undisturbed in the glovebox of the last four cars I've owned. I would gladly sell it to anybody for what Leatherman is now asking for them.
Right on and I have used the file as a pry bar to open frozen vehicle doors. Great Leatherman product and it is on my person every waking moment and during some sleep maintenance!!
shit... I wish I thought of that over using the serrated blade! I snapped my blade now thinking of sending in for warranty.... my is the black oxidized with the crimp on the heads which is rare and all warn in and I see many others getting a brand new one.... mine is already new and warn in!
I own three Leathermans. I am an avid outdoorsman and an aircraft mechanic by trade - I use multi-tools every day. I have a Surge, a wingman, and a Sidekick that I think I received as a promotional gift (it lives in my truck bag). I use the wingman the most. It is used everyday in my job and has been on several outdoor adventures to include a 10 day /60 mile hike in the New Mexico mountains. The Surge is great. It’s a beast. I would like to say its my favorite but it is too big for me to carry everything day - even on a belt pouch. I am a big fan of multi tools and Leatherman brands are the best.
Heh heh, i carried a surge for a year, it kept pulling my pants down. so i got a wave 2 and a pocket clip. Lost my Wave 2 and now carry a charge TTI. The neat thing about the Surge blade exchanger is you can use the diamond file to dress the blade in an off grid situation, no stone required.
I'm a big fan of the Leatherman Sidekick. A little smaller, like the original Leatherman from years ago, but still very useful. I've used it to work on some of my guitars in a pinch when I didn't have my tools with me.
Tip on not losing it (I've lost 2 Charges and a Juice). Use the hidden lanyard hole. Braid a bright orange/yellow/green lanyard out of reflective paracord.
After getting a Swisstool RS and a Wave a few years ago I must say that I barely ever carry either outside of my backpack. Back then I thought that I need the potent pliers and a decent knife blade. But now a Wenger-Executive, hanging on my keychain, seems to steal all of their objectives. It is always easy to get carried away with fancy gear. Sadly, I only get to use those guys when I go camping or have a barbeque in the woods. Summa summarum: The average person is probably well off by getting a simple SwissArmyKnife or one of those little juicy Leathermans.
I've had the SAK's "Super Tinker" for years and now have the "Rebar",which I picked up a few years ago. The SAK has the scissors I need, and the "Rebar" makes up for anything else:)
I am a photographer, and the eyeglass screwdriver has saved many cameras during events where someone has bumped the flash and lossened the hot shoe. That little screwdriver is the magic wand that lets me get in there and fix them! A Leatherman Wave lives in my camera bag at all times!
I think the wingman or the sidekick are great options. I edc a wingman myself. Also, some of the smaller ones would be great options. good video. Take Care and Be Aware
i used to edc a sidekick for four years. the file/ruler tool was useless, otherwise it was a good multitool. i dropped it into a river in the end. the next one i'll buy is going to be a rebar. i'm one of the few who need the awl, i also like the weight/functionality ratio. as for the wingman, i don't like the idea of having a serrated main blade. how do you guys sharpen them?
ChiefPrepper I'd probably go with a Rebar from what I've seen. it's got pretty much all the tools on a sidekick (don't know about the wingman) and more
ChiefPrepper agree with sidekick. I actually keep one in my deer hunting pack. Wood saw works great on a deers pelvic bone and if I lose it in the middle of nowhere I'm only out $35-40
I carry a Leatherman Fuse every day in a pouch on my belt. Pretty light. I never use the knife because I always have a folder with me. But the scissors, screw drivers, and pliers get used all the time. And are 3D. I love that the tools lock. That is one of the reasons I bought it. I wish I had bought a knifeless version. And I would change out the lanyard loop for a saw. It is what it is. Unfortunately they don't make the Fuse anymore. TJ
Love my ST300. I'm a maintenance tech for a plant and it's on me 24/7 on/off work. I love having it and not always needing to run to my toolbox for small repairs.
The rebar is the most versatile for me. It's small and light has the good screwdriver not the flat one in the wave. I do like the ability to get to the blades without opening and the small replaceable screwdriver. Tiny Scissors aren't that important in my everyday usage I make due with the knife blade.
Daniel Wimberly ,I agree with you. The rebar is a scaled down super tool 300. I will get a new one ASAP. Also, I don't consider scissors a necessary tool.
I carry a rebar, it's nice & small in the pocket which suits me. I also have a micra on my keys which covers a nice small & more robust pair of scissors to the silly ones you get on the wave, I also have the bit kit for this usually in my rucksack too; which is nice for driver versatility. I have found this to be my personal ideal set up and it as a whole sees lots of activity & hasn't let me down yet.
I also can't do without an awl and saw on an MT and actually use them pretty frequently. I also wear glasses and find use for scissors from time to time but not nearly as often as a blade, so I also keep a Victorinox Minichamp on my keychain as well. That coupled with the Rebar covers just about all the bases for me.
Or the knifeless version of the rebar is even better in my opinion. Looking into one of them maybe. I carry a decent pocket knife and have a few in the car. I really would rather have scissors for precise cuts and important materials than two little knives. I have a Victorinox Champion Plus (stopped production in 2016) and it has all the tools I need and I'd rather carry a separate set of pliers for comfort and hard use. Especially for the price. However, Rebar is a good all over option. I think I prefer leatherman vs Victorinox spirit.
I bought free p4. A week later broke tip on main blade by dropping it on wooden bench 10 inches away. You might have better luck with 420 hc steel than I did. Got it replaced, zero problems! Decide to get another Leatherman with better steel. Don't know much about 154cm, but have Spyderco Smock with s30v steel, very happy with it. Decided to go with charge tti, haven't touch my free p4 since got my charge tti. Cheers
Im an average guy, I work in retail and I carry the surge! And I love it, I figured if I was gonna buy a real leatherman, I might as well spend the money and get the big surge! (Go big or go home) lol I don’t even notice the weight on my belt! I love it!
I love leatherman, I have the wave, super tool 300, and micra, most of the time I carry my super tool 300, and my micra. With my super tool 300 in a black maxpedition sheath. I bought the wave first and it was to small gorgeous me that's why I went for the super tool 300. I'm a big guy so it fits me well.
Totally agree. I have several multi-tools and although none is perfect, the Wave is in my opinion, the best all around multi-tool to own. That said, everyone is different and has their own opinions. We are fortunate to have quite a number of very good multi-tools available. I very much like my Victorinox and Gerber too.
Great video. Thank you for the information. I personally use the Rebar. I work in a guitar shop and I use the wire cutters, knife, philips head driver, and ruler every single day. I also use the awI almost every day as a poker for my pipe. I thought I'd miss the scissors but I really don't so its perfect for me. I also prefer the dedicated philips over the bit system. It's much longer and easier to get into hard to reach places and tight fits.
I feel like the Rebar is the best for the average person just for the size and price alone. Need a scissor? Get yourself a keychain sized Victorinox as a companion.
I have been studying up about Leatherman tools for a couple of weeks now. I am in the process of putting together a bug out bag. This tool seems like the right one for inclusion in my bag. Since it is stainless you could use it and drop it in boiling water and use it for a simple medical procedure like removing a splinter or more and at the same time disinfect the tool. Obviously that is not what it designed for but seems like it is so diverse and multifunctional that it would work on lots of situations
Regarding the bit exchanger....if you have an exchanger you'll be carrying extra bits. It's not a downfall that you need to carry extra bits, it's a result of having a bit exchanger.
I’m so happy to see this. This morning I decided to buy a leatherman for the 3 men in my life… my two sons and my husband. I checked out what each leatherman had to offer and I decided on the Wave. It’s great that it’s the one you recommend since I already had ordered it before seeing this video. 😊
Ive been carrying the Wave for over two years. I use the pocket clip (sold separately for a bit too much money in my opinion). Its not too big or heavy unless I'm wearing dress pants. I always have the Wave on me and I use it ALL THE TIME for random things.
This "average person" has used a wide variety of multitools over the years, and my favorite without question is the Skeletool. Sure, things like a wire stripper and eyeglass screwdriver are useful now and then, but I don't need to carry them in my pocket at all times. The Skeletool does everything I need, quickly and easily, and nothing I don't.
Great review. I carry the Surge daily. Seems like I use it constantly. All are good tools and you should find what works best for you. Thanks for an awesome video.
So my Dad works at Leatherman tool in Portland, OR... suffice it to say... I own all of the Leatherman tools. I have 3 things to say... 1). Love the wave and use it a lot 2). I personally think the best EDC tool to carry is the REBAR. Based on size and functionality also slips easily in and out of your pocket. 3). Look into the CRUNCH... it has a built in vice grip instead of needle nose plier but can still work for needle nose.
Wave is overkill for the average person. Try a wingman. Cheaper, lighter, and with a pocketclip and package opener that's going to be used much more than a saw or metal file. It's not as nice as a Wave but for the average person is nice enough. You can pick one up used on eBay for about $30 then send it into Leatherman for a free refresh.
I have about 7 Leatherman's. I agree on whole, they are the best company. They have the largest variety, and specialize in it. There are cheaper variants. I think once you decide you like the swiss army knives (as we called them in my day) then definitely upgrade to a Leatherman based on your current need...as it will fill it.
I'm happy carrying my Free T4 in my pocket comfortably, using the package opener, knife and scissors nearly every day. Pliers are a heavier luxury which live in my toolbox.
Leatherman is NOT the be-all end-all of multi tools. In fact guaranteed you are spending WAY too much if you ignore so many ither brands. Look elsewhere befor you buy.
I like lots of multitools but most are way overpriced and often over featured! I personally don't need 1200 tools in 1! For me, the best multitool is an all-metal lightly used model (preferably a name brand like Leatherman, Gerber, SOG, etc)! Good info / review thanks!
The wave is a good choice I had a charge xti for 11 years main blade broke so they gave me a tti free all leatherman kit is good so choose whaT YOU WILL USE
Leatherman “Wave +” They added replaceable wire cutter blades to the pliers. Got mine yesterday. I used it for a small job the first day and then used the scissors for something later. I can’t stop playing with it.
skeletool or wingman to start out, maybe even a juice. but yeah i agree the leatherman wave is best for the average person but dont lose it! same with the victorinox spirirt
Best (for me) I is the rebar. In combination carry with a Victorynox Compact. It has siccors, a little screwdriver. Plus scales for tweezer, toothpick and pen!
Have you seen the knifeless Rebar yet? It includes a micro screwdriver exchanger (I believe?) and mini scissors instead of the 2 blades. I carry a dedicated folder or fixed blade, so the knifeless rebar option is appealing. I like my wingman for sure. Usually pair that with a Victorinox one-hand Trekker or other model with a wood saw. Great points on the Multitool purchases. Btw: I'm new to the gear nut fb page and made my first trade today! Super excited about it. I may have you make me some kydex if possible. I'll be in touch on fb! Great channel and reviews my friend. Take care-
Everyone has their opinion on which leatherman is the best. It all depends on how you use them. Thats what makes them so great. For example, I use the Rebar. I tried the Surge first, then the Wave and finally landed on the Rebar which is perfect for my job. Wouldn't go to work without it.
The replaceable cutters are a lot better than the stock ones. My best guess is the difference in heat treatment between them and the normal plier cutters. (On the wave they are coined and pressed into shape)
Love the Wave but it was a bit large for EDC. I found I never needed the bit kit. Wingman and Sidekick were good options, wife has one of those and I've given the other as gifts. Eventually I put my Wave in my emergency bag and went to a Juice for edc on weekends. It's now my preferred Leatherman model and good used ones can be found cheap on ebay. All that said my primary 5-days/wk work-carry edc is still my Victorinox S18. So many tools in such a tiny package. Great for thinner work slacks in an office setting.
I bought a few year the surge to replace the first gen wave and I considered it a upgrade and I cary it every day in my pocket to go to my jop at the office. Then they stole it and I bought it back a few years later and I can say the new version is the best multi tool. First I have the file always on it you can take the file out and use the daimond side to sharp it. Second I bought bosh saw which are larger than the surge saw and cary it in the pouch. Third I bought the bit set and there is a bit that bought side are phillips size #1 and #2. The surge self has tree size flat so the origonal bit one side flat and the other side phillips is not nesary to cary replaced with bought side phillips.fourth buy the bit extender and the replacment wire cutter.Sixth put a lang yard with a flint to make fire on the removable pocket clip so you can remove it easly when need it. Sevent buy the moly caring pouch with the side carying holders. One side is for a flash light and the other side w40 no mess pen to lubricate the bade ect. Best survival mod.
Great review! I agree the Wave is a great choice and checks many boxes. I'm lucky that I have several Leathermans to choose from. I carried the Surge at work for a long time and it's great but I received a Charge TTI as a gift with an inscription and carry that one usually now. But I have a Wave + also so you're right a Charge is just a Wave on steroids a little and had I not received it as a gift then the Wave will do anything that the Charge will do 😉 and is a great choice.
I love my Wave plus. I use it a lot when fishing. The file is great for sharpening hooks, the pliers are great for removing hooks from fishes mouths, the sissors are awesome for cutting braid or mono. The knives are obviously useful too. I attach mine to my life jacket with a retractable lanyard to make sure they don't end up in the water! A great tool and highly recommended!
Thats exactly what I said when I found a leatherman. Its the Blast. Almost the same tools but with additional serrated edge and blades folds out. The most important tool in any multi-tool for me is the pliars. Keep that and a 7in1 screwdriver in your car.
I carried a large multi tool for yrs and foumd I never used the majority of the tools on it. Today being father's day I decided to treat myself to a new multi tool. I ended uo picking up a Leatherman Rev. It has all the little basics I need and is perfect for keeping it in my pocket. Of I go hiking/camping I'll take my old trusty but as a pocket carry I really like this new Rev I picked up.
I’d like a multi tool with both pliers, scissors and most importantly locking blades in a compact, one-handed carrying tool. Multiple driver bits would be a plus but not a deal breaker. Any suggestions?
The Wave Plus is a machine. my Roomba vacuum wheel was super clogged with hair etc. Between the scissors and needle nose pliers I was able to cut and grab everything out pretty easily in about five minutes. I was skeptical about the micro scissors but today they prove themselves worthy. All hail Wave 🙏 PS for context i've had the Wave Plus less than a week and it's been a dream. I've carried a pretty standard Victorinox since 2018 has come in mega handy but this thing might be replacing it in my EDC.
I don't see the point of going for a lesser multi-tool, i.e. any other leatherman than the surge. The Surge is the multitool, there is no one other that compares.
agreed! with the t shank and bit exchanger, you can pretty much cover every tool you would ever need short of a welder. i'm pretty sure someone out there is trying to figure out a way to mount that!
I bought the charge tti first. Then bought the supertool 300. Then bought the swisstool spirit x. Then bought the victorinox Hercules. Then bought the Surge. In conclusion, you are correct lol.
Hey. I get across your video today. 4 years later, and still very valid video. I went and get a Wave + . Outstanding tool, and apparently "Leatherman" saw it as well, because now, as I'm sure you are aware, the Wave has replaceable wire cutters and the pliers are somewhat lockable. Great video. Thanks for the tips.
The wave plus is my fav. Charge tti is good. But i just hate the stupid ti scales it has a bit movement when i use it hard. I hate that feeling so much. I tighten the screw but it will effect the smotness when open the tools.
I have the original Wave when it first came out. I really love it. I have it on my belt every day and probably use it at least once or twice a day. Even though I'd like to upgrade to the Surge or Charge TTI, but until this one breaks (if it will ever break) then I'm perfectly happy with the Wave. Thanks for the video.
Any chance you can review Victorinox Spirit? It includes some nice features of both Rebar and Wave. All tools on Spirit are accessible when the pliers are folded. It is lighter than Wave and has a pair of scissors, an awl, a chisel and long shank screwdrivers.
Currently, I'd point people towards the Skeletool, Wave+ or Rebar, possibly with a Micra in the case of the Rebar or Style CS with the Skeletool. For me the smaller, smoother outside and thinner profile of the Rebar makes it MUCH easier for me to carry, plus I carry a separate "main" knife. If I didn't carry a knife I'd probably go Skeletool with the Style CS. Very rarely do I really need something outside of the knife, pliers, screwdriver, tweezers, scissors, or bottle opener in my daily life when not at work.
I've been sporting my new Surge as my EDC. It's not *significantly* more bulky than my previous EDC, the original Charge Ti, even though it's noticeably larger on the belt. It hasn't given me any trouble sitting in my office chairs or in the car, etc. One of the main reasons I replaced the Charge with the Surge was for the replaceable wire cutters and larger pliers head. Although I dulled the cutters on my Charge after many years, the nail in the coffin was when the rivet started to warp/loosen introducing play and a gap at the cutters, rendering them useless for 16 gauge and higher. I'm an IT tech by trade, a gear head by hobby, and love to tinker on gizmos and gadgets. My Leatherman gets used literally every day. The blade exchanger doesn't bother me, and I keep the file equipped with the saw in the holster since I use the file more often to finish a little part I might make, like a little bracket for a car mod or something. I also have my bit set for the bit exchanger in the holster, which doesn't get used as often as the tool itself, but used often enough to justify me carrying it. I'm very impressed with the pliers on the Surge/ST300. I'm sure my next trip to the junk yard will be a breeze. The one thing I wish is that it had the "eyeglass" driver in place of the smaller standard screwdriver. I use that often when working on laptops and electronics. I've been considering swapping it out of my Charge even though it won't fit right in the bigger body. Perhaps there's a big-body Leatherman with the mini bit driver...
I am with you on the surge. You can put the eyeglass screwdriver into the blade lock clamp, it works halfway decent, generally holds it enough for the low torque needed for eyeglass screws.
I’ve had a couple skeletools. They’re pretty good! I have the Surge it’s awesome, I keep it in the glove box so I can get to it if needed. My Wave is on my hip or in my hand all the time. It’s my favorite tool!
yep the wave is exelant for the average jo ???? but the surge is all the way to the bank dogs bollox big boy to get bigger is better oh and ive got one for xmass lol
For me, the Rebar is closest to the original PST design, and can't be beat. Better size than the Wave or Charge, and more capable than the S2 Juice. I think there are different multitools for different people and everyone needs to figure out which model is best for him or her....or...just get a few....or too many.
i carry an leatherman wave black oxide with the full bit kit on my hip everyday. cant live without it. its even come in handy helping out strangers. had it for over almost 2 years now and its the best thing ever. that and my thrunite ti4 flash light. gotta have them both.
My charge can opener is superior and will open cans super fast. I am sure it's because I use it all the time. It's still as sharp as the day I bought it.
The best first Leatherman option for the average person would be to get the Squirt PS4. A truly average person doesn't need to carry around a full sized multi-tool and that's assuming they would even want to. The Squirt is plenty capable for most of the tasks that the average person will be doing in this day and age and, can be attached it to their keys so they don't have to wear a belt sheath or clip a 8 oz. hunk of metal to their pocket. If they want something more substantial after that they will be able to find the perfect option for them because they would know what they want in a multi-tool.
The Tip of my wave broke after 24 years, I sent it back and they sent me a new one, the best in the world, I love this tool.
Did you have to prove when you purchased it??
@@mrhyde6600 Nope just the Item.
Oooh you just barely kissed the warranty
@@mrhyde6600 There's a date code stamped on the inside of the handle.
They have the best customer service.
I have the Charge TTI, the Wave, The Skeletoo CXl, the Juice CS4, and the squirt PS4. My daily carry is the Wave. I make custom leather goods for a living and every time a customer orders a new pouch or sheath for a different model it gives me an excuse to buy a new one to make the fit perfect. Over 90 per cent of my customers are Wave users, that must say something.
ownes 5 $140+ leatherman's.... needs to wait until next paycheck to buy a $4 can opener....something wrong with this picture??!?!
You're not fun at parties, are you?
@@liolp808 What is a party?!?!?
pesto12601 😂
You know you spend too much money on gear when you have to wait until next paycheck to buy a can opener lol
Sayz you:)
you prolly dont give a shit but does any of you know a trick to log back into an Instagram account??
I was dumb lost the login password. I would appreciate any assistance you can give me.
@Elijah Colin Instablaster ;)
@Jace Salvador i really appreciate your reply. I got to the site on google and Im waiting for the hacking stuff now.
Looks like it's gonna take quite some time so I will get back to you later with my results.
@Jace Salvador it worked and I actually got access to my account again. I am so happy!
Thank you so much, you saved my ass!
I absolutely love my Leatherman wave. It’s come in handy so many times. Bar none the best 100 dollars I’ve ever spent.
They're the best. I'm 35 and I'm only on my second. I had the Wave for about 15 years and now I have the Rebar. I would still have the Wave if it hadn't been stolen. These things last forever if you don't lose em.
Yessir. They are a great little tool. Had the original Wave (which was stolen) now I the Wave +. Give it a little time they will be $120.00.....$130.00.....
I have 2 of the waves and have used them for 15 years love them.
I volunteer with a local no kill animal rescue organization & I've been able to literally save lives a few times with my Leatherman Wave! Also the scissors are invaluable when cutting the name collars we use both putting them on (cutting off the excess tabs) & cutting them off when, for example when they get adopted before I load the pet up in the crate! I LOVE mine! Had 1 stolen from me a while back & had 2 get a new 1 ASAP!
Hi, nice review of the Wave. I just got one for my nephew (I feel like keeping it !👹) You were very thorough in pointing out the different functions and I learned about a couple of new tools I hadn't realized were there! I know my nephew is going to be ecstatic because he's been dreaming about this knife!
Cheers~Stella
I wish I was your nephew lol :p
The surge is perfect. I've had it for over a year and belt carry it with the wratchet and bit kit. Hasn't fallen me yet.
One of the best EDC tool videos I've seen: It's way too honest and really speaks to the average guy. 👍👍
Let me know if you have an updated video on this topic.
Agree with everything you said. The Wave is the best all around multi-tool available today for the average person. If you can find one for under $100, it is worth it. Adding the $20 bit kit, it becomes a pocket sized toolbox. Although I wouldn't put it in my pocket every day (EDC).
There has been numerous times in my life when I have been to single female residences, and have seen simple thing in need of repair. I had not had my Leatherman at the time, but if there was one available at the residence, I could have saved her many hundreds of dollars in repairs if she just had any tools at all, besides a hammer and broken pliers. If single women would buy this with the bit set and just threw it in a drawer for the next altruistic handyman to come along (father, brother, friend, etc.), it would pay for itself dozens of times over the years.
I love the 300. I do hvac and when I don’t want to get a tool out of the truck it works perfect. Wire strippers knife and players also the screwdriver. Use everyday.
I really like my Charge TTI. Had a Wave for a long time but Charge feels much better in the hand and SV30 blade is great. Can’t go wrong with either.
Those things cost the best part of $300 in the UK lol I can have a nice little collection of other Leathermans and Swisstools for that money
I promised myself to pick up a Wave whenever my PST II gave out. Still waiting lol
You're going to be disappointed, it so much more chunky in the pocket, and don't offer much back... the eyeglass screwdriver is sometimes useful, alto I can't remember last time I needed it.. And the bit exchanger looks cool and all, but often you'll find it cant reach into the narrow slots where the PST's phillips driver fits nicely...
If my PST gave up I'd go get my other PST, yea, I got myself a backup.
I bought a PST several decades ago. At the time, it was the coolest thing I'd ever seen. It has been sitting largely undisturbed in the glovebox of the last four cars I've owned. I would gladly sell it to anybody for what Leatherman is now asking for them.
@@michaelcolloton6971 too bad I didn't see this sooner lol, I've been looking for a pst for sale
@@michaelcolloton6971 how much are you want to sell your leatherman PST for
The Norwegian Army used the Wave when I served. Liked it a lot - abused it a lot, never failed me :)
Right on and I have used the file as a pry bar to open frozen vehicle doors. Great Leatherman product and it is on my person every waking moment and during some sleep maintenance!!
shit... I wish I thought of that over using the serrated blade!
I snapped my blade now thinking of sending in for warranty.... my is the black oxidized with the crimp on the heads which is rare and all warn in and I see many others getting a brand new one.... mine is already new and warn in!
@@Matanumi I carry a dedicated mini crowbar/prytool (usually the gerber shard) for that reason. It is great having a tiny tool that saves the blade
thank you for your service !
You've got so many ! I wish my friends or family were in to all this kind of gear. I'm the only one 😢
You may just as well off not having scissors with the ones that come on the wave and charge! They're a joke!
I own three Leathermans. I am an avid outdoorsman and an aircraft mechanic by trade - I use multi-tools every day. I have a Surge, a wingman, and a Sidekick that I think I received as a promotional gift (it lives in my truck bag). I use the wingman the most. It is used everyday in my job and has been on several outdoor adventures to include a 10 day /60 mile hike in the New Mexico mountains. The Surge is great. It’s a beast. I would like to say its my favorite but it is too big for me to carry everything day - even on a belt pouch. I am a big fan of multi tools and Leatherman brands are the best.
Heh heh, i carried a surge for a year, it kept pulling my pants down. so i got a wave 2 and a pocket clip. Lost my Wave 2 and now carry a charge TTI. The neat thing about the Surge blade exchanger is you can use the diamond file to dress the blade in an off grid situation, no stone required.
I'm a big fan of the Leatherman Sidekick. A little smaller, like the original Leatherman from years ago, but still very useful. I've used it to work on some of my guitars in a pinch when I didn't have my tools with me.
Tip on not losing it (I've lost 2 Charges and a Juice). Use the hidden lanyard hole. Braid a bright orange/yellow/green lanyard out of reflective paracord.
After getting a Swisstool RS and a Wave a few years ago I must say that I barely ever carry either outside of my backpack.
Back then I thought that I need the potent pliers and a decent knife blade. But now a Wenger-Executive, hanging on my keychain, seems to steal all of their objectives.
It is always easy to get carried away with fancy gear. Sadly, I only get to use those guys when I go camping or have a barbeque in the woods.
Summa summarum: The average person is probably well off by getting a simple SwissArmyKnife or one of those little juicy Leathermans.
I've had the SAK's "Super Tinker" for years and now have the "Rebar",which I picked up a few years ago. The SAK has the scissors I need, and the "Rebar" makes up for anything else:)
@@blacksmith44 Plus one for the Rebar. It's the perfect size for most tasks, and the price is right. 😁👍
I am a mechanic and I like my "fuse" and my "wave", but I can see your point for the average person
I am a photographer, and the eyeglass screwdriver has saved many cameras during events where someone has bumped the flash and lossened the hot shoe. That little screwdriver is the magic wand that lets me get in there and fix them! A Leatherman Wave lives in my camera bag at all times!
Nice video! I carry a surge everyday on my belt for work, Im a welder and have a toolbox on my job sites as well but always use my leatherman
I think the wingman or the sidekick are great options. I edc a wingman myself. Also, some of the smaller ones would be great options. good video. Take Care and Be Aware
I have a Wave and ST300 but the Wingman is what's in my pocket everyday.
i used to edc a sidekick for four years. the file/ruler tool was useless, otherwise it was a good multitool. i dropped it into a river in the end. the next one i'll buy is going to be a rebar. i'm one of the few who need the awl, i also like the weight/functionality ratio. as for the wingman, i don't like the idea of having a serrated main blade. how do you guys sharpen them?
ChiefPrepper I'd probably go with a Rebar from what I've seen. it's got pretty much all the tools on a sidekick (don't know about the wingman) and more
ChiefPrepper b
ChiefPrepper agree with sidekick. I actually keep one in my deer hunting pack. Wood saw works great on a deers pelvic bone and if I lose it in the middle of nowhere I'm only out $35-40
I like that the Surge's removable diamond file can be used to sharpen or even repair nicks in the blade in a pinch.
I carry a Leatherman Fuse every day in a pouch on my belt. Pretty light. I never use the knife because I always have a folder with me. But the scissors, screw drivers, and pliers get used all the time. And are 3D. I love that the tools lock. That is one of the reasons I bought it. I wish I had bought a knifeless version. And I would change out the lanyard loop for a saw. It is what it is. Unfortunately they don't make the Fuse anymore. TJ
Love my ST300. I'm a maintenance tech for a plant and it's on me 24/7 on/off work. I love having it and not always needing to run to my toolbox for small repairs.
Really great info! There are so many Leatherman's, all with different perks and some are for very specific things, so this is definitely helpful.
Had a Wave for several years, love it.
The rebar is the most versatile for me. It's small and light has the good screwdriver not the flat one in the wave. I do like the ability to get to the blades without opening and the small replaceable screwdriver. Tiny Scissors aren't that important in my everyday usage I make due with the knife blade.
Daniel Wimberly ,I agree with you. The rebar is a scaled down super tool 300. I will get a new one ASAP. Also, I don't consider scissors a necessary tool.
I carry a rebar, it's nice & small in the pocket which suits me. I also have a micra on my keys which covers a nice small & more robust pair of scissors to the silly ones you get on the wave, I also have the bit kit for this usually in my rucksack too; which is nice for driver versatility.
I have found this to be my personal ideal set up and it as a whole sees lots of activity & hasn't let me down yet.
I love my rebar. Anything people use tiny scissors for, I will use the blade. It has never let me down.
I also can't do without an awl and saw on an MT and actually use them pretty frequently. I also wear glasses and find use for scissors from time to time but not nearly as often as a blade, so I also keep a Victorinox Minichamp on my keychain as well. That coupled with the Rebar covers just about all the bases for me.
Or the knifeless version of the rebar is even better in my opinion. Looking into one of them maybe. I carry a decent pocket knife and have a few in the car. I really would rather have scissors for precise cuts and important materials than two little knives. I have a Victorinox Champion Plus (stopped production in 2016) and it has all the tools I need and I'd rather carry a separate set of pliers for comfort and hard use. Especially for the price. However, Rebar is a good all over option. I think I prefer leatherman vs Victorinox spirit.
I bought free p4. A week later broke tip on main blade by dropping it on wooden bench 10 inches away. You might have better luck with 420 hc steel than I did. Got it replaced, zero problems! Decide to get another Leatherman with better steel. Don't know much about 154cm, but have Spyderco Smock with s30v steel, very happy with it. Decided to go with charge tti, haven't touch my free p4 since got my charge tti. Cheers
super tool 300 ..heavy to carry but worth it..use mine daily and takes alot of abuse
Im an average guy, I work in retail and I carry the surge! And I love it, I figured if I was gonna buy a real leatherman, I might as well spend the money and get the big surge! (Go big or go home) lol I don’t even notice the weight on my belt! I love it!
I love leatherman, I have the wave, super tool 300, and micra, most of the time I carry my super tool 300, and my micra. With my super tool 300 in a black maxpedition sheath. I bought the wave first and it was to small gorgeous me that's why I went for the super tool 300. I'm a big guy so it fits me well.
Dustin Williams the 300 is my work MT. It’s tough as nails. I use it everyday
ps4 is with me almost everyday for 4 years. small as i forget that it is with me but usefull all the time.
Oh yeah! Spyderco and PS4, the perfect EDC combo👌
Totally agree. I have several multi-tools and although none is perfect, the Wave is in my opinion, the best all around multi-tool to own. That said, everyone is different and has their own opinions. We are fortunate to have quite a number of very good multi-tools available. I very much like my Victorinox and Gerber too.
Thanks, man. This helped a ton.
I couldn't agree more, it's 2019 and I am carrying a Leatherman Plus that replaced the Leatherman wave I used to carry.
Love it, was totally gonna get the surge but now I need the wave.
Great video. Thank you for the information. I personally use the Rebar. I work in a guitar shop and I use the wire cutters, knife, philips head driver, and ruler every single day. I also use the awI almost every day as a poker for my pipe. I thought I'd miss the scissors but I really don't so its perfect for me. I also prefer the dedicated philips over the bit system. It's much longer and easier to get into hard to reach places and tight fits.
I feel like the Rebar is the best for the average person just for the size and price alone.
Need a scissor? Get yourself a keychain sized Victorinox as a companion.
I have been studying up about Leatherman tools for a couple of weeks now. I am in the process of putting together a bug out bag. This tool seems like the right one for inclusion in my bag. Since it is stainless you could use it and drop it in boiling water and use it for a simple medical procedure like removing a splinter or more and at the same time disinfect the tool. Obviously that is not what it designed for but seems like it is so diverse and multifunctional that it would work on lots of situations
What did you end up buying / including in the bug out bag?
Regarding the bit exchanger....if you have an exchanger you'll be carrying extra bits. It's not a downfall that you need to carry extra bits, it's a result of having a bit exchanger.
I’m so happy to see this. This morning I decided to buy a leatherman for the 3 men in my life… my two sons and my husband. I checked out what each leatherman had to offer and I decided on the Wave. It’s great that it’s the one you recommend since I already had ordered it before seeing this video. 😊
Ive been carrying the Wave for over two years. I use the pocket clip (sold separately for a bit too much money in my opinion). Its not too big or heavy unless I'm wearing dress pants. I always have the Wave on me and I use it ALL THE TIME for random things.
This "average person" has used a wide variety of multitools over the years, and my favorite without question is the Skeletool. Sure, things like a wire stripper and eyeglass screwdriver are useful now and then, but I don't need to carry them in my pocket at all times. The Skeletool does everything I need, quickly and easily, and nothing I don't.
I have a leatherman wave plus and positively swear by it’s usefulness
Great review. I carry the Surge daily. Seems like I use it constantly. All are good tools and you should find what works best for you. Thanks for an awesome video.
So my Dad works at Leatherman tool in Portland, OR... suffice it to say... I own all of the Leatherman tools. I have 3 things to say... 1). Love the wave and use it a lot 2). I personally think the best EDC tool to carry is the REBAR. Based on size and functionality also slips easily in and out of your pocket. 3). Look into the CRUNCH... it has a built in vice grip instead of needle nose plier but can still work for needle nose.
Wave is overkill for the average person. Try a wingman. Cheaper, lighter, and with a pocketclip and package opener that's going to be used much more than a saw or metal file. It's not as nice as a Wave but for the average person is nice enough. You can pick one up used on eBay for about $30 then send it into Leatherman for a free refresh.
I agree, for the everyman the Wave or the larger Surge would be more than fine. I have both but daily those who daily the Surge.
The Rebar, don't care about Outside accessible blades, long shaft drivers, also 30-40 dollars cheaper.
Its probably best of the ”cheaper” ones.
I have about 7 Leatherman's. I agree on whole, they are the best company. They have the largest variety, and specialize in it. There are cheaper variants. I think once you decide you like the swiss army knives (as we called them in my day) then definitely upgrade to a Leatherman based on your current need...as it will fill it.
I'm happy carrying my Free T4 in my pocket comfortably, using the package opener, knife and scissors nearly every day. Pliers are a heavier luxury which live in my toolbox.
Leatherman is NOT the be-all end-all of multi tools. In fact guaranteed you are spending WAY too much if you ignore so many ither brands. Look elsewhere befor you buy.
Don't overlook the Rebar. For scissors I just use...scissors, and I don't need the eyeglass tool, so Rebar is great bang for buck for general use.
I like lots of multitools but most are way overpriced and often over featured! I personally don't need 1200 tools in 1! For me, the best multitool is an all-metal lightly used model (preferably a name brand like Leatherman, Gerber, SOG, etc)! Good info / review thanks!
I’ve got a Leatherman wave at work , had my name on it , lost it . Got it back.
The wave is a good choice I had a charge xti for 11 years main blade broke so they gave me a tti free all leatherman kit is good so choose whaT YOU WILL USE
Leatherman “Wave +” They added replaceable wire cutter blades to the pliers. Got mine yesterday. I used it for a small job the first day and then used the scissors for something later. I can’t stop playing with it.
Finally found the best multi-tool review
skeletool or wingman to start out, maybe even a juice. but yeah i agree the leatherman wave is best for the average person but dont lose it! same with the victorinox spirirt
Best (for me) I is the rebar. In combination carry with a Victorynox Compact. It has siccors, a little screwdriver. Plus scales for tweezer, toothpick and pen!
Have you seen the knifeless Rebar yet? It includes a micro screwdriver exchanger (I believe?) and mini scissors instead of the 2 blades. I carry a dedicated folder or fixed blade, so the knifeless rebar option is appealing. I like my wingman for sure. Usually pair that with a Victorinox one-hand Trekker or other model with a wood saw. Great points on the Multitool purchases. Btw: I'm new to the gear nut fb page and made my first trade today! Super excited about it. I may have you make me some kydex if possible. I'll be in touch on fb! Great channel and reviews my friend. Take care-
Everyone has their opinion on which leatherman is the best. It all depends on how you use them. Thats what makes them so great. For example, I use the Rebar. I tried the Surge first, then the Wave and finally landed on the Rebar which is perfect for my job. Wouldn't go to work without it.
I love the wingman.
The replaceable cutters are a lot better than the stock ones. My best guess is the difference in heat treatment between them and the normal plier cutters. (On the wave they are coined and pressed into shape)
Great review, I just saw it I know it's 2 years old but still a great review. IM going to check out the Leatherman Wave.
Like the wave. It is my glove box tool. I carry a Sidekick on my keychain. With those two I am covered head to toe.
Love the Wave but it was a bit large for EDC. I found I never needed the bit kit. Wingman and Sidekick were good options, wife has one of those and I've given the other as gifts. Eventually I put my Wave in my emergency bag and went to a Juice for edc on weekends. It's now my preferred Leatherman model and good used ones can be found cheap on ebay. All that said my primary 5-days/wk work-carry edc is still my Victorinox S18. So many tools in such a tiny package. Great for thinner work slacks in an office setting.
I bought a few year the surge to replace the first gen wave and I considered it a upgrade and I cary it every day in my pocket to go to my jop at the office. Then they stole it and I bought it back a few years later and I can say the new version is the best multi tool. First I have the file always on it you can take the file out and use the daimond side to sharp it. Second I bought bosh saw which are larger than the surge saw and cary it in the pouch. Third I bought the bit set and there is a bit that bought side are phillips size #1 and #2. The surge self has tree size flat so the origonal bit one side flat and the other side phillips is not nesary to cary replaced with bought side phillips.fourth buy the bit extender and the replacment wire cutter.Sixth put a lang yard with a flint to make fire on the removable pocket clip so you can remove it easly when need it. Sevent buy the moly caring pouch with the side carying holders. One side is for a flash light and the other side w40 no mess pen to lubricate the bade ect. Best survival mod.
Great review! I agree the Wave is a great choice and checks many boxes. I'm lucky that I have several Leathermans to choose from. I carried the Surge at work for a long time and it's great but I received a Charge TTI as a gift with an inscription and carry that one usually now. But I have a Wave + also so you're right a Charge is just a Wave on steroids a little and had I not received it as a gift then the Wave will do anything that the Charge will do 😉 and is a great choice.
I love my Wave plus. I use it a lot when fishing. The file is great for sharpening hooks, the pliers are great for removing hooks from fishes mouths, the sissors are awesome for cutting braid or mono. The knives are obviously useful too. I attach mine to my life jacket with a retractable lanyard to make sure they don't end up in the water! A great tool and highly recommended!
Oh man I was wondering if it'd be good for fishing. Thanks
@@olegyefremov2583 you will love it :)
Thats exactly what I said when I found a leatherman. Its the Blast. Almost the same tools but with additional serrated edge and blades folds out. The most important tool in any multi-tool for me is the pliars. Keep that and a 7in1 screwdriver in your car.
I carried a large multi tool for yrs and foumd I never used the majority of the tools on it. Today being father's day I decided to treat myself to a new multi tool. I ended uo picking up a Leatherman Rev. It has all the little basics I need and is perfect for keeping it in my pocket. Of I go hiking/camping I'll take my old trusty but as a pocket carry I really like this new Rev I picked up.
Bought one today for just $20
Im happy
I’d like a multi tool with both pliers, scissors and most importantly locking blades in a compact, one-handed carrying tool. Multiple driver bits would be a plus but not a deal breaker. Any suggestions?
Thanks for the review.
The Wave Plus is a machine. my Roomba vacuum wheel was super clogged with hair etc. Between the scissors and needle nose pliers I was able to cut and grab everything out pretty easily in about five minutes.
I was skeptical about the micro scissors but today they prove themselves worthy. All hail Wave 🙏
PS for context i've had the Wave Plus less than a week and it's been a dream. I've carried a pretty standard Victorinox since 2018 has come in mega handy but this thing might be replacing it in my EDC.
Have Wave + as well as a Skeletool. The first ranks hands above all others I have tried.
Victorinox swisstool spirit x is the best edc multi tool in my opinion
Surge all the way.
you sir are correct.
I don't see the point of going for a lesser multi-tool, i.e. any other leatherman than the surge. The Surge is the multitool, there is no one other that compares.
agreed! with the t shank and bit exchanger, you can pretty much cover every tool you would ever need short of a welder. i'm pretty sure someone out there is trying to figure out a way to mount that!
I bought the charge tti first. Then bought the supertool 300. Then bought the swisstool spirit x. Then bought the victorinox Hercules. Then bought the Surge. In conclusion, you are correct lol.
No way. Having to choose between the saw and the file sucks like hell.
a leatherman without an awl is a no no for me. this tool is magical it makes perfect holes in wood
Recently I've grown to love the awl. I don't carry anything that doesn't have one.
Out of curiosity, why? What do you use the awl for?
It's essential when attaching a screw. I made my own little awl for the bit holder. Works well!
I own the Surge, Charge Plus Tti, Skeletool CX, Tread and Styles CX. If I could only own 1. It would be the Surge and 2nd would be the Crunch.
The surge doesn't fail me in a single way, for me it's a winner, I've had the wave and didn't like it
The thing about it is if you need such a heavy-duty tool. My father and I do contracting work and we both have a Wave+. Exceeds our needs.
Hey. I get across your video today. 4 years later, and still very valid video. I went and get a Wave + . Outstanding tool, and apparently "Leatherman" saw it as well, because now, as I'm sure you are aware, the Wave has replaceable wire cutters and the pliers are somewhat lockable. Great video. Thanks for the tips.
The wave plus is my fav. Charge tti is good. But i just hate the stupid ti scales it has a bit movement when i use it hard. I hate that feeling so much. I tighten the screw but it will effect the smotness when open the tools.
I have the original Wave when it first came out. I really love it. I have it on my belt every day and probably use it at least once or twice a day. Even though I'd like to upgrade to the Surge or Charge TTI, but until this one breaks (if it will ever break) then I'm perfectly happy with the Wave. Thanks for the video.
Any chance you can review Victorinox Spirit? It includes some nice features of both Rebar and Wave. All tools on Spirit are accessible when the pliers are folded. It is lighter than Wave and has a pair of scissors, an awl, a chisel and long shank screwdrivers.
Currently, I'd point people towards the Skeletool, Wave+ or Rebar, possibly with a Micra in the case of the Rebar or Style CS with the Skeletool. For me the smaller, smoother outside and thinner profile of the Rebar makes it MUCH easier for me to carry, plus I carry a separate "main" knife. If I didn't carry a knife I'd probably go Skeletool with the Style CS. Very rarely do I really need something outside of the knife, pliers, screwdriver, tweezers, scissors, or bottle opener in my daily life when not at work.
I have the Surge & the Wave but returned the Wave & choose the Wingman it's now my EDC for 5 yrs! The Surge is just on my toolbox & never use it all!
I've been sporting my new Surge as my EDC. It's not *significantly* more bulky than my previous EDC, the original Charge Ti, even though it's noticeably larger on the belt. It hasn't given me any trouble sitting in my office chairs or in the car, etc.
One of the main reasons I replaced the Charge with the Surge was for the replaceable wire cutters and larger pliers head. Although I dulled the cutters on my Charge after many years, the nail in the coffin was when the rivet started to warp/loosen introducing play and a gap at the cutters, rendering them useless for 16 gauge and higher. I'm an IT tech by trade, a gear head by hobby, and love to tinker on gizmos and gadgets. My Leatherman gets used literally every day.
The blade exchanger doesn't bother me, and I keep the file equipped with the saw in the holster since I use the file more often to finish a little part I might make, like a little bracket for a car mod or something. I also have my bit set for the bit exchanger in the holster, which doesn't get used as often as the tool itself, but used often enough to justify me carrying it.
I'm very impressed with the pliers on the Surge/ST300. I'm sure my next trip to the junk yard will be a breeze. The one thing I wish is that it had the "eyeglass" driver in place of the smaller standard screwdriver. I use that often when working on laptops and electronics. I've been considering swapping it out of my Charge even though it won't fit right in the bigger body.
Perhaps there's a big-body Leatherman with the mini bit driver...
I am with you on the surge. You can put the eyeglass screwdriver into the blade lock clamp, it works halfway decent, generally holds it enough for the low torque needed for eyeglass screws.
I’ve had a couple skeletools. They’re pretty good! I have the Surge it’s awesome, I keep it in the glove box so I can get to it if needed. My Wave is on my hip or in my hand all the time. It’s my favorite tool!
when I bought my surge years ago I put can it in a hard shell glasses holder and carry it every day in my pocket when I go to the office.
yep the wave is exelant for the average jo ???? but the surge is all the way to the bank dogs bollox big boy to get bigger is better oh and ive got one for xmass lol
For me, the Rebar is closest to the original PST design, and can't be beat. Better size than the Wave or Charge, and more capable than the S2 Juice.
I think there are different multitools for different people and everyone needs to figure out which model is best for him or her....or...just get a few....or too many.
i carry an leatherman wave black oxide with the full bit kit on my hip everyday. cant live without it. its even come in handy helping out strangers. had it for over almost 2 years now and its the best thing ever. that and my thrunite ti4 flash light. gotta have them both.
I guess I don't mind carrying a heavy multi tool on me, I bought a Leatherman Supertool 300 and for what I do everyday it matches me perfectly.
Whats your problem with the can opener on the wave? I use mine all the time and it goes through the can like nothing?
Shit i used my can opener on my Rebar to open a bottle of Sparkling cider on newyears.
Some people don't seem to know which direction to rotate the can, maybe that's his issue
My charge can opener is superior and will open cans super fast. I am sure it's because I use it all the time. It's still as sharp as the day I bought it.
The best first Leatherman option for the average person would be to get the Squirt PS4. A truly average person doesn't need to carry around a full sized multi-tool and that's assuming they would even want to. The Squirt is plenty capable for most of the tasks that the average person will be doing in this day and age and, can be attached it to their keys so they don't have to wear a belt sheath or clip a 8 oz. hunk of metal to their pocket. If they want something more substantial after that they will be able to find the perfect option for them because they would know what they want in a multi-tool.
Love my Charge. I have pocket carried it for years.