When it comes to Leatherman Surge vs Wave, Leatherman designed both to be excellent multi-tools that provide for a wealth of uses. When you invest in either model, you can trust that you are getting high-quality, long-lasting, and functional multi-tools that will serve you well.
But before you settle on a multi-tool, you may be wondering if there are advantages to owning one over the other. To help you choose the best multi-tool for your needs, I’m going to explore both the Wave Leatherman and the Leatherman Surge to find out just what it is that makes these multi-tools so great.
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The Differences
Upon first glance of these multi-tools from Leatherman, the Wave looks to be very similar to the Surge. In fact, they are both designed in a manner that makes them look nearly identical. The Leatherman Surge is slightly larger in appearance, and that makes a big difference when working with gloves.
Having the extra real estate to hold on to, the Leatherman Surge ensures that you’ll have a better grip on your multi-tool. But the differences don’t end there. The larger size of the Leatherman Surge means that you are also getting larger tools to work with compared to those found in the Leatherman Wave. How does this affect their functionality?
The scissors are one of the most noticeable differences. Thanks to their larger size, they much easier to use, giving you more cutting prowess for your various cutting needs. The difference isn’t minimal, either. Upon opening each pair, there is an apparent size advantage to using the scissors from the Leatherman Surge.
Their handles are better and their blades are larger. This makes minor cutting jobs vastly easier. But as nice as it is to have larger tools to work with, it’s important to mention the disadvantages of owning such a mammoth multi-tool. For one thing, the Leatherman Surge is quite a bit heavier vs Wave and its weight.
The Leatherman Surge weighs a hefty 11.8 ounces, while the Leatherman Wave clocks in at just 7.8 ounces. That 4-ounce difference is quite noticeable when carrying each multi-tool on your belt or pocket. The Leatherman Wave is actually rather comfortable to throw into your back or front pocket and forget about it.
The same can’t be said for the Surge. Its bulk is certainly noticeable at all times, so you might not want to invest in it if you need a multi-tool that you can keep on your person throughout the workday. The Leatherman Wave, on the other hand, seems to be crafted for this purpose. Its size and weight unite to deliver a portable, convenient multi-tool that is easy to carry.
So, aside from size differences, what kind of tools can you expect from the Leatherman Surge and Leatherman Wave? Furthermore, how do they perform in their use? To answer these questions, I had to spend plenty of time testing and using each multi-tool over the course of a week.
As you will soon learn, there are more differences beyond just size and weight.
The Multi-Tools of the Trade
Just looking at the Leather-Wave and Leatherman Surge, you would be forgiven for thinking they come equipped with the same tools. However, closer inspection reveals otherwise. The Leatherman Surge has multi-tools that the Wave doesn’t, and vice versa. Being bigger, you would think that the Surge at least has everything that the Wave has, but that’s not the case.
To make it easier to see what each multi-tool includes (and excludes), I’ve compiled a list of every tool you will find among the Leatherman Surge vs Leatherman Wave. Let’s explore.
Tools Included With the Leatherman Surge
- SDS replacement holder (file and saw)
- Wood saw blade and metal file
- Spring-loaded scissors
- 420HC serrated knife
- Diamond-coated file
- Needle nose pliers
- Blade exchanger
- Large bit holder
- Large bit driver
- Small bit driver
- Bottle opener
- Wire stripper
- Wire cutters
- 420HC knife
- Can opener
- Crimper
- Pliers
- Ruler
- Saw
- Awl
Let’s now look at the Wave’s included tools to see what it has over the Surge, as well as what it’s missing.
Tools Included With the Leatherman Wave
- Wood saw blade and metal file
- Spring-loaded scissors
- 420HC serrated knife
- Diamond-coated file
- Needle nose pliers
- Medium bit driver
- Blade exchanger
- Small bit holder
- Large bit holder
- Wire stripper
- 420HC knife
- Can opener
- Crimper
- Pliers
- Ruler
- Saw
If you’re keeping score, the Leatherman Wave is missing wire cutters, the awl, the SDS replacement holder, bottle opener, large bit driver, and small bit driver. The Leatherman Surge is missing the small bit holder and medium bit driver.
Perhaps the most noticeable omission in the Wave is that of the SDS replacement holder for the saw and file. This one allows you to place either tool in the holder for added support and security. Additionally, if one or both tools break, you can easily replace them.
This is a big deal, especially if you plan on using one or both multi-tools on a regular basis. If so, the Leatherman Surge is definitely better suited to your needs. If you invest in the Wave and one of the tools breaks, you are effectively out of luck, as you won’t be able to easily swap them out like you can on the Surge.
With that said, during our testing, never once did either tool show signs of weakening. Both held up to a slew of sawing and filing. You won’t have to worry about them busting on you any time soon, that’s for sure.
So, with the Leatherman Surge vs Wave multi-tools, it’s clear that there are advantages to one over the other, and vice versa. The Surge one is more robust and capable of providing for heavy-duty, frequent use. The Wave is more geared toward people who need a daily multi-tool but don’t plan on cutting or filing very often.
While I don’t think you’ll have to worry about the Wave’s saw or file giving you trouble in the near future, it’s important to remember that if they do ultimately break, your hands will be tied. If you don’t think you will ever use either tool, you should be in the clear, making the Wave a safe buy.
Both multi-tools feature stainless steel in their construction. Stainless steel is known for its durability and longevity. Regardless of whether you go with Surge vs Wave or Wave vs Surge, you can look forward to their stainless steel tools lasting a lifetime with proper care and maintenance.
Furthermore, both the Surge and the Wave come equipped with stainless steel tools that you can access from the outside of each of the multi-tools. These are important features to have, as they allow you to quickly access a variety of tools without having to completely open the multi-tools.
Again, however, the multi-tools differ in this regard. Let’s take a moment to look at the tools that are available in the Surge vs the tools available in the Wave.
Outside Leatherman Surge Tools
- SDS replacement holder (file and saw)
- Spring-loaded scissors
- 420HC serrated knife
- 420HC knife
Outside Leatherman Wave Tools
- Wood saw blade and metal file
- 420HC serrated knife
- Diamond-coated file
- 420HC knife
Once again, the SDS replacement holder for the file and saw gives the Leatherman Surge vs the Wave the slight advantage. This one comes in mighty handy if you plan on using either tool regularly, as they are always at the ready when you need to access them.
Moreover, having access to the large, spring-loaded scissors gives you more functionality for a wider variety of tasks. You don’t see that one on the Wave. Instead, you get the diamond-coated file and wood saw blade. If you accidentally break one, you won’t be able to replace them like you can with the Surge.
It would have been nice if both multi-tools gave you quick access to wire cutters, especially depending on the line of work you’re in. A lot of people use wire cutters on a daily basis, and having instant access without having to open up the multi-tools would have certainly saved some time. Still, it isn’t a huge deal; only a minor gripe.
Recommended Reading: Top 10 Best Survival Saw Reviews [with videos]
Bit Drivers and Holders
Next up are the bit drivers. Whereas the Wave only has a medium bit driver, the Surge omits this tool in favor of a small and large bit driver. All three tools are functional in the Surge vs Wave, but you are somewhat limited either way you slice it. With that being said, the differences aren’t incredibly noticeable, as each driver is adequate in its performance.
And then there are the bit holders. In the battle of Leatherman Surge vs Wave, the Wave gets the nod here for having both large and small bit holders, whereas the Surge only has one large. It’s nice to see that the Wave comes equipped with both, as this makes it a great multi-tool to carry on you when you need to fix eyeglasses or the like. No such luck on the Surge.
I found this addition in the Wave to give it a slight edge in the Leatherman Surge vs Wave comparison for people who like to tinker with electronics. During our testing, I found this to be a boon when I needed to fix small gadgets and gizmos on the fly. Thanks to the versatility of the Wave, it is incredibly handy to have access to its tiny tools. The Surge, on the other hand, simply couldn’t tackle the smaller jobs that the Wave so easily could.
If you often find yourself looking for small drivers, whether for repairs or hobby work, the Wave is definitely more up your alley. It’s nice to have these smaller tools at your side at all times, as it keeps you from having to sort through your tools to try and find a driver suitable for your job.
With that being said, the Leatherman Surge vs the Wave is more capable of tackling the big stuff. Its tougher and larger tool selection makes a big difference when you’re out in the field and need a tool that can cut, crimp, saw, and shear. This one is definitely better suited for heavy-duty tasks, and it shows.
Which Is Better?
If you want a robust multi-tool that you can toss in your toolbox, the Leatherman Surge is a wonderful investment. It is built to last a lifetime and won’t disappoint in its performance. It’s a bit on the heavy side, so you will likely get tired of carrying it around all day. But for a reliable, dependable tool to have handy on the job site, the Surge is an excellent companion to have access to.
For those looking for a portable, convenient tool to carry on your person throughout the day, the Wave is the better fit. This is especially true if you are looking for a handy companion to assist you with smaller jobs. Working on electronics and other like tasks proves to be exceptionally easy when you have the Wave at your side.
The good news is that both tools are very similar in price. You don’t have to worry about spending an arm and a leg should you choose to invest in either. They are reasonably priced and do a fine job in their target applications.
If I had to choose one over the other, I would have to go with the Surge. Because they are priced so closely to one another, it makes more sense to invest in the tool that gives you more bang for your buck. Just remember, however, that it’s subjective. Your job or hobbies might dictate that the Wave is better suited to your needs.
Either way, you can’t go wrong. Both the Surge and Wave will serve you well in any capacity.
