You also get the sheath with the loops with the Charge. The sheath with the wave doesn't have them. If you want that sheath, it's another $15 on the wave price. Add the clip, and quarter bit kit, and the price is pretty comparable I'd say. Mostly boils down to asthetics. I really like the loops on the charge sheath for carrying the bit extender, and a small flashlight. Both are great tools.
Agree on the looks, that's why I got a charge over the wave originally. For years I did not use the bits or pocket clip. Mine was a heritage model so it came with a nice leather sheath without the pockets. I also always carry a nice dedicated folder so the 154CM isn't a big deal either. Over that time I did not utilize any of that added value to make it more comparable. So the point is that I essentially paid more for what I argue is almost no added value and even minor inconveniences in my personal use. So for those like me, I'd tell them that they are not getting an "inferior" tool with the wave. On the flipside, if the buyer uses all that stuff then the value equation starts to make a lot of sense. It's all about the end user!
Charge seemed like a better package for me. I wouldn't tell someone the wave is the wrong choice. Going with the charge partially because I got a good used deal. $160 these days is spendy. I like the better sheath, having a few bits, and the clip included. I don't need the full bit kit as I have an Ifixit kit with bits for days. What I do need is a sheath that will hold a bit driver. Hoping the ratcheting one comes back in stock. I feel like Leatherman does a bad job at telling people about the differences of their products. Maybe they prefer all their fans do it for them lol. Quality marketing getting us all to talk about it with our them doing anything.
An excellent objective review. Arguments and opinions are well made and thoroughly thought thru. Very nice to watch a review that does not just rehash everything all the other reviewers said. Thank you
Love my wave. I use it with a pocket clip purchased separately. It's slim enough to pocket carry with no real issues for me. I've probably used it countless thousands of times.
Everything you said about why the charge isn't as good is why as a fisherman I want, the gut hook and serrated blade make cleaning easier and a blade that holds and edge better is key for filleting.that being said if I had my way I would just get the s30v main blade and Serrated blade from the charge ti and put it on a wave.
Surprisingly they aren’t rivets! They’re actually proprietary screws that I have taken apart using a pair of Knipex cobras. In a way they can be more convenient because they don’t require any specialized tools. Still prefer the torx though!
Thanks for the video I was wondering what the difference was because to me the two looked exactly the same but one was more expensive. Turns out that's exactly what it is xD.
Would have to agree even though I don't own a Charge but from everyone I've spoken with or review I've watched the Wave is the way to go if it's going to be your EDC working tool. I've used the Wave+ as mine and there's few things it hasn't been able to handle and you can quickly see why it's the #1 selling LM probably worldwide. So for the price difference I'd tell people to go with the Wave, however,...I do like those colored scales and having the gut hook is appealing. Something you pointed out that is definitely worth mentioning is the wire crimping ability and how the aluminum scale are kind of in the way. For me I would never be able to use it at work if for nothing else just that reason alone, around the home, that's a different story. I plan on getting a G10 somewhere down the line( or two) but for a working man's tool...I think the Wave is the one ;) Thanks again for a great video!
Appreciate the comment! I did get a charge G10 earth just for that extra sex appeal! It has been my #1 carry in 2021 for sure but that’s partly me honeymooning on it and partly me not doing heavy duty tasks for work anymore!
Hey bro I have a wave plus, I just got it today. If u want a stronger piler more beefy get u a surge it’s pretty sturdy. Iv seen people break their wave pilers on reviews so I wound push mine too much. The surge is like half an inch longer and has a awl in the scales
I was JUST about to buy a black/black oxide Charge, (i have an addiction to buying shit i dont need) but i have 2 Waves, and was lucky enough to get the limited edition Darkside from Leatherman delivered yesterday, which is basically a glorified Charge anyway. If the Darkside (i have no intentions on actually using it) feels anything like a regular Charge when you hold it - i was honestly a bit surprised how much more comfortable the Wave is to hold…. I have the Leatherman Free P4 also, which i just got like 2 weeks ago - and I’m kinda forcing myself to carry it. The Wave just feels “perfect” to hold in your hand and use. Theres no hard edges, everything is smooth esp when its broken in, its like the perfect size to carry in a pocket using the belt clip, (you dont even know its there) and everything anyone ever REALLY needs and uses (even for other people that ask to borrow it work) is already on it. I only bought the Free P4 cause i had a gift card to use, and i thought having the outside accessible scissor would be more convenient for me since i use them everyday to cut medication strips i have to take. If I’m really honest with myself though - the Wave just appeals to me more - ESP since you cant get the Free P4 in black, or in ANY color other than silver stainless steel for that matter (which makes no sense to me when the similar frame knives are available in all sorts of colors, and you’d THINK Leatherman would wanna market a black version to military personnel). I think you just cost Leatherman another sale. Ive had the Surge also, (some asshole stole it when i left it behind by accident at work) and for anyone considering that - IMO - its a great tool, but just a little too big and heavy to “comfortably” keep clipped onto the inside of your pocket. It doesnt ‘disappear’. You know its there all the time.
Personally I really like the Charge+ feeling, as someone who owned the wave + before the charge + the grip for me is actually better I can hold it much better and its blade lasted longer before I had to sharpen it, but the wave will always be my first multi tool and it holds a place in my heart. Edit: it’s 5 AM cut me some slack on the punctuation lol
Everyone has different hands so I could see how a person would prefer the charge The edge retention of the charge 154CM or S30V blades is so much better than the standard 420HC for sure.
oh....I thought the Charge will be easier to work with because of the aluminium handles. The Wave with its steel body really digs into my palm when I am using the blades for a long time. Ok, I understand the plier handles of the Wave is more rounded, but what about when using the blades? The Wave has a lot of hot spots (at least for me). Is the Charge same or better, or worse?
I'd say the charge is slightly nicer on the hand in the closed position but the outside implements stick out on both models and are the real issue IMO. So only a moderate benefit from the charge. Whereas in the open position the wave is significantly better. Both good though
Hi Justin, the earlier versions of the Wave had a built-in hidden lanyard loop you could access by unfolding the saw blade and pushing it up and out with say a flat head. Do you know if the latest model Wave Plus still has this feature? If so, it's not advertised by Leatherman in any of its promo material. I know for the latest ones you can buy as add ons a lanyard loop and pocket clip. Thanks!
It does feel a little "smoother" but not easier to manipulate if that makes sense. The fastener style doesn't really make a difference. However the addition of phosphor bronze washers on both sides of the Charge's 4 outer tools (8 washers total) supposedly makes a "big" difference. The Wave has the same washers but only on the side closest to the pliers (4 washers total). From my experience comparing 2 charges to 1 wave and 1 surge, the difference is absolutely minor. Probably wouldn't be noticeable by most users at all.
Geez, it’s not just ten dollars, buying that blad with the higher steel, having an optional hook for seat belts, it weighs less, it’s better to have it and not use it vs not have it when you need it, for a tool that lasts a lifetime, $40 seems like a good deal for a metal that lasts longer, and several more features
It really comes down to what a person wants out of it and can afford. For me the g19 charge is my favorite. But I just can’t knock the wave because it really is a solid performer
I think youre leaving out the fact thay the charge has a much nicer sheath with pockets for your bits "to save the day ,when the day needs saving". That way there on you when you need them instead of in your car or whereever
Definitely left it out on accident because I agree those sheaths are great. I just buy them aftermarket so I don’t really even think about because I have them ready to go already
@EngineersPerspective701 sure ,yeah I get it . Kinda changes the value proposition now tho right. If you buy the nice sheath aftermarket the cost of a charge/wave are much closer . So it really becomes do you want or need the gut hool style serrated blade or do you like the look of either better.
Found a older charge tti in a parking lot awhile ago with the s30v blade. Felt like an act of God as my shrade mutitool had just died on me a week prior. Although I didn't pay a dime for it I'd say the titanium version is worth every penny, so light in the pocket and this version had a crimper built into the pliers themselves which is very very nice. Have since bought the bit kit and the driver with a dedicated sheeth and I can honestly say I never go without
It’s funny because I actually lost my charge TTI in a parking lot a few months back. Please do the work of god and return it to its original owner. I’d be happy to send you my mailing address.
I wish! I’d love to have an awl. But both have the eyeglass screwdriver. I even tried to put the awl from my rebar into the charge plus to replace the eyeglass screwdriver but it doesn’t fit right because of that little tab in the handle
@@EngineersPerspective701 Oh my bad I guess I was thinking about some other multi tool lol. Btw you can replace the flat head screwdriver with the awl from rebar. I've seen a few videos about that modification and it seems to work fine!
@@drakejosh808 I thought about it but I rely on the flathead because I usually switch out the bit exchanger one for a #1/#2 Philips bit. Probably would be worth sticking with the standard and having the awl though!
I don't know how "unpopular" this opinion is. The general consensus among the EDC/Knife community (as far as I've seen anyway), has always been that the standard Charge, while nice, is not generally worth the additional cost vs. the Wave. I personally have the Charge TTi, and LOVE it. I HAVE noticed the difference in edge retention on the blade, and it just seems much "tougher" overall (this may be totally in my mind).
Totally see a major difference in edge retention no doubt! I personally don’t see a real difference in “toughness” but regardless of the trim package they’re all great!
@@EngineersPerspective701 I’m in a weird predicament, I love folders and have a nice collection of them, and would love to carry one. The problem is I’m too practical, I don’t want to carry something that I rarely need to use. I find that for edc, the blade on a wave gets job done. For harder use tasks (like cutting wire, zip ties, etc) the pliers on the wave are better than a hard use folder. So it makes it hard for me to add 5 more ounces of bulk and pocket space for a folder that has very limited application for me. So then that puts me in a position where I might as well upgrade the blade on the wave to the best possible option.
You forgot the fact that the charge comes with a sheath with pockets, the wave doesnt come with that, and if you need that you have to buy it seperatly for 15-20 dollars
Fair assessment, if that's something the buyer is going to want then it should be considered. I forget about it because mine actually came with the heritage sheath and I already had a pocket sheath ready to swap into way down the road.
Security torx yes! I’ve been using my Knipex cobras to take apart the charge. Not nearly as convenient but it has worked without ruining the screws. Wrenches can also be bought off Etsy that fit too if you’re doing it a lot
I hate to tell you this but I'd say the G10 with S30V is probably a worse deal than the standard Charge+. I've been carrying the Charge+ G10 Earth for nearly a month and the handles aren't more comfortable, just a little more textured. Same other issues and S30V vs. 154CM isn't as big of a jump compared to 154CM vs. 420HC. Having said that, I did a test between all three. Although it was overall inconclusive, their S30V did have an advantage over 154CM as expected and I do carry my charges over the wave (mostly because I just love Leathermans!). Basically you won't go wrong with any of them but don't feel like you need to pay more for an amazing tool! Cedric and Ada did a good test here as well: th-cam.com/video/G-pGckfXhWk/w-d-xo.html
The 154cm is really the driving factor. To each their own but I always push towards getting an actual reputable brand like Leatherman or Victorinox or Gerber if you can’t afford the former. I understand not everyone can afford a wave and still want that setup but I can’t support it
In my coutry there's less than $20 difference, and you get a better sheath, some bits, and a better steel, while the rest costs your ammount in $ and then some. (It's not cheaper tho' the wave is just overpriced)
For me it’s definitely worth the extra bit of money. To your point it’s a bargain for all the extras and you get the upgraded steel. Prices these days on the Wave are nuts for sure. Packs a lot of utility but pricey!
@@EngineersPerspective701 there rarely is a bad product, but there often is a bad price ;p also, thanks for all the content, I can get a good look at some tools I've been looking for, rather than buying a cat in a bag
I think there are those on the web that have said the Charge is more ergonomic as the Wave can have rough edges. I have never handled a Wave, so I wouldn’t know for certain.
Wave is more comfortable using the pliers hands down. Using the internal tools closed may be slightly more comfortable on the charge but I've never really noticed a hotspot on the wave or surge so I'm guessing no. Some say an advantage to the the ST300/Rebar is that they are much more comfortable closed but the difference is smaller than one would think. Mostly because the wave is actually pretty nice closed.
I have to disagree with most of this. I'm not an engineer, but I have used both the wave and charge. I use the charge + daily. The differences are... Gut hook Better blade Different/aesthetically pleasing scales Smoother phosphor bronze washers Belt clip Half of 1 bit kit And a slightly different sheeth. The gut hook is something I use waaaayyy more then I ever thought, and for those of us that use the belt clip it comes with it as opposed to spending another 10 on top of the 100 for the wave. I got the charge cuz my edc is sort of blackout, and I wanted the better steel, belt clip, and gut hook. For 40 more, totally worth it for how much more you can do with what's supplied with the charge.
It’s all about what your personal use and needs! I didn’t use any of the included extras for years so they didn’t add any value for me. As for the functionality the tools are pretty comparable but it’s not all pros when you move to the charge from the wave.
It’s definitely too bad that the international prices are so out of control. Especially because the people that truly get the full utility out of them can’t afford prices like that.
It's probably due to having to be an import. We see the reverse side over here too where German Hazat brand tools are significantly more expensive stateside than Germans see.
THESE ARE TOOLS FOR OCCASIONS, FOR EMERGENCY, TO GET OUT OF A RUSH. THEY ARE NOT FOR ALL DAY WORK. FOR THAT I WOULD TAKE MY TOOL BOX. FOR THAT ALL WOULD BE PERFECT.
Can’t say I totally agree. They are for helping a person do what needs doing. For some they may use it once a week for the odd task. For another it’s a tool that saves them a trip down from the rafters or back out to the van. To another, this plus a crescent wrench are all they need to complete a days work and get used every day. It just depends on the person and what they’re doing.
I've always felt the TTI handles were a bit blocky just feeling them in store which is what's kept me away but I know many that really like them. The G10 charges to me are really the best of all worlds
@@EngineersPerspective701 I bought mine online at bass pro. There was an option for orange g-10. I felt that titanium cost less and more premium material than g-10. Never had option to hold it in hand and feel difference see which one is more comfortable
You also get the sheath with the loops with the Charge. The sheath with the wave doesn't have them. If you want that sheath, it's another $15 on the wave price. Add the clip, and quarter bit kit, and the price is pretty comparable I'd say. Mostly boils down to asthetics. I really like the loops on the charge sheath for carrying the bit extender, and a small flashlight. Both are great tools.
Agree on the looks, that's why I got a charge over the wave originally.
For years I did not use the bits or pocket clip. Mine was a heritage model so it came with a nice leather sheath without the pockets. I also always carry a nice dedicated folder so the 154CM isn't a big deal either. Over that time I did not utilize any of that added value to make it more comparable.
So the point is that I essentially paid more for what I argue is almost no added value and even minor inconveniences in my personal use. So for those like me, I'd tell them that they are not getting an "inferior" tool with the wave. On the flipside, if the buyer uses all that stuff then the value equation starts to make a lot of sense.
It's all about the end user!
Charge seemed like a better package for me. I wouldn't tell someone the wave is the wrong choice. Going with the charge partially because I got a good used deal. $160 these days is spendy. I like the better sheath, having a few bits, and the clip included. I don't need the full bit kit as I have an Ifixit kit with bits for days. What I do need is a sheath that will hold a bit driver. Hoping the ratcheting one comes back in stock.
I feel like Leatherman does a bad job at telling people about the differences of their products. Maybe they prefer all their fans do it for them lol. Quality marketing getting us all to talk about it with our them doing anything.
An excellent objective review. Arguments and opinions are well made and thoroughly thought thru. Very nice to watch a review that does not just rehash everything all the other reviewers said. Thank you
Appreciate that! That’s what I’m shooting for
Love my wave. I use it with a pocket clip purchased separately. It's slim enough to pocket carry with no real issues for me. I've probably used it countless thousands of times.
It's a lifesaver for sure!
Everything you said about why the charge isn't as good is why as a fisherman I want, the gut hook and serrated blade make cleaning easier and a blade that holds and edge better is key for filleting.that being said if I had my way I would just get the s30v main blade and Serrated blade from the charge ti and put it on a wave.
I can definitely see how those would be nice for fishing. It’s always interesting how different one’s use case is.
You technically can. Those parts are often found on eBay.
Late to the party but this review answered the question I've been trying to figure out. Thanks!
Better late than never! Glad it helped!
The charge also is riveted so you cannot really tighten it if loose or do any mods whereas the Wave has Torx screws.
Surprisingly they aren’t rivets! They’re actually proprietary screws that I have taken apart using a pair of Knipex cobras. In a way they can be more convenient because they don’t require any specialized tools. Still prefer the torx though!
I love my Wave. It’s not too heavy and it’s got the best selection of tools.
It’s a perennial classic for a reason!
Change tti is king!!!
Thanks for the video I was wondering what the difference was because to me the two looked exactly the same but one was more expensive. Turns out that's exactly what it is xD.
I wish I could say it’s more than that but alas the truth remains!
Would have to agree even though I don't own a Charge but from everyone I've spoken with or review I've watched the Wave is the way to go if it's going to be your EDC working tool. I've used the Wave+ as mine and there's few things it hasn't been able to handle and you can quickly see why it's the #1 selling LM probably worldwide. So for the price difference I'd tell people to go with the Wave, however,...I do like those colored scales and having the gut hook is appealing. Something you pointed out that is definitely worth mentioning is the wire crimping ability and how the aluminum scale are kind of in the way. For me I would never be able to use it at work if for nothing else just that reason alone, around the home, that's a different story. I plan on getting a G10 somewhere down the line( or two) but for a working man's tool...I think the Wave is the one ;) Thanks again for a great video!
Appreciate the comment! I did get a charge G10 earth just for that extra sex appeal! It has been my #1 carry in 2021 for sure but that’s partly me honeymooning on it and partly me not doing heavy duty tasks for work anymore!
Hey bro I have a wave plus, I just got it today. If u want a stronger piler more beefy get u a surge it’s pretty sturdy. Iv seen people break their wave pilers on reviews so I wound push mine too much. The surge is like half an inch longer and has a awl in the scales
I was JUST about to buy a black/black oxide Charge, (i have an addiction to buying shit i dont need) but i have 2 Waves, and was lucky enough to get the limited edition Darkside from Leatherman delivered yesterday, which is basically a glorified Charge anyway. If the Darkside (i have no intentions on actually using it) feels anything like a regular Charge when you hold it - i was honestly a bit surprised how much more comfortable the Wave is to hold…. I have the Leatherman Free P4 also, which i just got like 2 weeks ago - and I’m kinda forcing myself to carry it. The Wave just feels “perfect” to hold in your hand and use. Theres no hard edges, everything is smooth esp when its broken in, its like the perfect size to carry in a pocket using the belt clip, (you dont even know its there) and everything anyone ever REALLY needs and uses (even for other people that ask to borrow it work) is already on it. I only bought the Free P4 cause i had a gift card to use, and i thought having the outside accessible scissor would be more convenient for me since i use them everyday to cut medication strips i have to take. If I’m really honest with myself though - the Wave just appeals to me more - ESP since you cant get the Free P4 in black, or in ANY color other than silver stainless steel for that matter (which makes no sense to me when the similar frame knives are available in all sorts of colors, and you’d THINK Leatherman would wanna market a black version to military personnel). I think you just cost Leatherman another sale.
Ive had the Surge also, (some asshole stole it when i left it behind by accident at work) and for anyone considering that - IMO - its a great tool, but just a little too big and heavy to “comfortably” keep clipped onto the inside of your pocket. It doesnt ‘disappear’. You know its there all the time.
There is a reason the wave hasn’t been truly surpassed since it came out decades ago. It’s just a very, very well thought out and executed tool
Hi..thanks for a interesting comparison..What pocket knife with the green scales is in the video..And is it spring assisted?
Appreciate you watching!
It’s the Benchmade Bugout 535 GRY-1 and not assisted. Awesome lightweight but very capable carry!
@@EngineersPerspective701 thanks for answering 😀😀
Good points.
Thanks!
5:57 what's that knife?
Benchmade bugout, model# 535GRY-1. Great light weight knife that can take a licking and keep on chugging!
The basic Charge is over $350 in australia and the tti has an rrp of over $430! I’ll definitely be buying another Wave…. Thanks for the review though…
Damn those are gnarly prices!
picked up the wave older 2nd gen, the charge ti first gen and the black Rebar all for $150
Solid haul!!
Personally I really like the Charge+ feeling, as someone who owned the wave + before the charge + the grip for me is actually better I can hold it much better and its blade lasted longer before I had to sharpen it, but the wave will always be my first multi tool and it holds a place in my heart.
Edit: it’s 5 AM cut me some slack on the punctuation lol
Everyone has different hands so I could see how a person would prefer the charge
The edge retention of the charge 154CM or S30V blades is so much better than the standard 420HC for sure.
Good stuff. Thanks
Thank you for watching!
You can strip romex much faster with that hook
No doubt, hadn’t thought of using it that way prior to putting the wires in the box
oh....I thought the Charge will be easier to work with because of the aluminium handles. The Wave with its steel body really digs into my palm when I am using the blades for a long time. Ok, I understand the plier handles of the Wave is more rounded, but what about when using the blades? The Wave has a lot of hot spots (at least for me). Is the Charge same or better, or worse?
I'd say the charge is slightly nicer on the hand in the closed position but the outside implements stick out on both models and are the real issue IMO. So only a moderate benefit from the charge. Whereas in the open position the wave is significantly better. Both good though
Hi Justin, the earlier versions of the Wave had a built-in hidden lanyard loop you could access by unfolding the saw blade and pushing it up and out with say a flat head. Do you know if the latest model Wave Plus still has this feature? If so, it's not advertised by Leatherman in any of its promo material. I know for the latest ones you can buy as add ons a lanyard loop and pocket clip. Thanks!
Michael,
They sure do! Most people don’t know it’s there but you can push it out just like you explained.
@@EngineersPerspective701 Ok, good to know. I've got one on order for my grandson's birthday.
@@MichaelE.Douroux Aweome gift!
Is the charge smoother? It has different fixings holding it together
It does feel a little "smoother" but not easier to manipulate if that makes sense.
The fastener style doesn't really make a difference. However the addition of phosphor bronze washers on both sides of the Charge's 4 outer tools (8 washers total) supposedly makes a "big" difference. The Wave has the same washers but only on the side closest to the pliers (4 washers total). From my experience comparing 2 charges to 1 wave and 1 surge, the difference is absolutely minor. Probably wouldn't be noticeable by most users at all.
Geez, it’s not just ten dollars, buying that blad with the higher steel, having an optional hook for seat belts, it weighs less, it’s better to have it and not use it vs not have it when you need it, for a tool that lasts a lifetime, $40 seems like a good deal for a metal that lasts longer, and several more features
It really comes down to what a person wants out of it and can afford. For me the g19 charge is my favorite. But I just can’t knock the wave because it really is a solid performer
I think youre leaving out the fact thay the charge has a much nicer sheath with pockets for your bits "to save the day ,when the day needs saving". That way there on you when you need them instead of in your car or whereever
Definitely left it out on accident because I agree those sheaths are great. I just buy them aftermarket so I don’t really even think about because I have them ready to go already
@EngineersPerspective701 sure ,yeah I get it . Kinda changes the value proposition now tho right. If you buy the nice sheath aftermarket the cost of a charge/wave are much closer . So it really becomes do you want or need the gut hool style serrated blade or do you like the look of either better.
Found a older charge tti in a parking lot awhile ago with the s30v blade. Felt like an act of God as my shrade mutitool had just died on me a week prior. Although I didn't pay a dime for it I'd say the titanium version is worth every penny, so light in the pocket and this version had a crimper built into the pliers themselves which is very very nice. Have since bought the bit kit and the driver with a dedicated sheeth and I can honestly say I never go without
You are a lucky man! He must have known you needed it!
Found it in a parking lot!!😮😮😮 and you didn't go immediately and buy a lotto ticket??😁
It’s funny because I actually lost my charge TTI in a parking lot a few months back. Please do the work of god and return it to its original owner. I’d be happy to send you my mailing address.
@@maxwelld5832 lol 😆 what state did you lose it in?
@@johnfellers8412 honestly I should have 😅
idk how you missed it but one more difference is that the wave Plus has an eyeglass screwdriver whereas the charge plus has the sewing awl
I wish! I’d love to have an awl. But both have the eyeglass screwdriver. I even tried to put the awl from my rebar into the charge plus to replace the eyeglass screwdriver but it doesn’t fit right because of that little tab in the handle
@@EngineersPerspective701 Oh my bad I guess I was thinking about some other multi tool lol. Btw you can replace the flat head screwdriver with the awl from rebar. I've seen a few videos about that modification and it seems to work fine!
@@drakejosh808 I thought about it but I rely on the flathead because I usually switch out the bit exchanger one for a #1/#2 Philips bit. Probably would be worth sticking with the standard and having the awl though!
@@EngineersPerspective701 yeah def you could try it, maybe you'd like it better with the awl 🤓
I was thinking the exact same thing before you pulled out your benchmade the steel on a multitool knife doesn't matter benchmade 4 life
Heard! It’s all about what a person carries and how they use it but I’m firmly in this lane too.
I don't know how "unpopular" this opinion is. The general consensus among the EDC/Knife community (as far as I've seen anyway), has always been that the standard Charge, while nice, is not generally worth the additional cost vs. the Wave. I personally have the Charge TTi, and LOVE it. I HAVE noticed the difference in edge retention on the blade, and it just seems much "tougher" overall (this may be totally in my mind).
Totally see a major difference in edge retention no doubt! I personally don’t see a real difference in “toughness” but regardless of the trim package they’re all great!
No your right he's wrong.😉
Wave with an s30v swap is king! Especially if you don’t carry a dedicated knife
I’ve really thought about doing a blade swap of the 154cm into the wave. Maybe do a few other mods while I’m at it
@@EngineersPerspective701 I’m in a weird predicament, I love folders and have a nice collection of them, and would love to carry one. The problem is I’m too practical, I don’t want to carry something that I rarely need to use. I find that for edc, the blade on a wave gets job done. For harder use tasks (like cutting wire, zip ties, etc) the pliers on the wave are better than a hard use folder. So it makes it hard for me to add 5 more ounces of bulk and pocket space for a folder that has very limited application for me. So then that puts me in a position where I might as well upgrade the blade on the wave to the best possible option.
@@rsafree1139 I think you nailed the solution on the head! Get S30V or honestly 154CM is amazing too and don't look back!
You forgot the fact that the charge comes with a sheath with pockets, the wave doesnt come with that, and if you need that you have to buy it seperatly for 15-20 dollars
Fair assessment, if that's something the buyer is going to want then it should be considered.
I forget about it because mine actually came with the heritage sheath and I already had a pocket sheath ready to swap into way down the road.
You can take the wave apart with torx bits…. The charge??? Doesn’t look like you can.
Security torx yes! I’ve been using my Knipex cobras to take apart the charge. Not nearly as convenient but it has worked without ruining the screws. Wrenches can also be bought off Etsy that fit too if you’re doing it a lot
@@EngineersPerspective701 aren’t they rivets on the main joints? I just ordered a charge+ g10 that also has torx. 👍🏻
@@dannymars nope there a special kind of screw head! You can actually buy wrenches off Etsy from a guy in Russia that makes them
If you have the money get the Charge TTI.
Never liked the blocky handles. Thoughts on the TTI vs the G10 models?
Do you think the Charge in G10 with the S30V is more valid?
I hate to tell you this but I'd say the G10 with S30V is probably a worse deal than the standard Charge+. I've been carrying the Charge+ G10 Earth for nearly a month and the handles aren't more comfortable, just a little more textured. Same other issues and S30V vs. 154CM isn't as big of a jump compared to 154CM vs. 420HC. Having said that, I did a test between all three. Although it was overall inconclusive, their S30V did have an advantage over 154CM as expected and I do carry my charges over the wave (mostly because I just love Leathermans!).
Basically you won't go wrong with any of them but don't feel like you need to pay more for an amazing tool!
Cedric and Ada did a good test here as well: th-cam.com/video/G-pGckfXhWk/w-d-xo.html
Here's another unpopular opinion,
I would pay the price of a Charge+ TTi for a Wave+ w/ S30V steel.
Same. With the same little bundle of accessories too of course!
The question here is whether a quality blade steel is worth 40 bucks. If its not, buy any wave clone like an ozark trail for half the price or less.
The 154cm is really the driving factor.
To each their own but I always push towards getting an actual reputable brand like Leatherman or Victorinox or Gerber if you can’t afford the former. I understand not everyone can afford a wave and still want that setup but I can’t support it
In my coutry there's less than $20 difference, and you get a better sheath, some bits, and a better steel, while the rest costs your ammount in $ and then some. (It's not cheaper tho' the wave is just overpriced)
For me it’s definitely worth the extra bit of money. To your point it’s a bargain for all the extras and you get the upgraded steel.
Prices these days on the Wave are nuts for sure. Packs a lot of utility but pricey!
@@EngineersPerspective701 there rarely is a bad product, but there often is a bad price ;p also, thanks for all the content, I can get a good look at some tools I've been looking for, rather than buying a cat in a bag
The improved steel ion the charge is a big deal.
Its definitely a big upgrade to that part of the tool but I think it really depends on the person how important it actually is
Who the heck is using concrete as a cutting board?
Lol, iron workers, construction workers, etc. Sometimes that’s just the situation and there’s no way around it too
I think there are those on the web that have said the Charge is more ergonomic as the Wave can have rough edges. I have never handled a Wave, so I wouldn’t know for certain.
Wave is more comfortable using the pliers hands down. Using the internal tools closed may be slightly more comfortable on the charge but I've never really noticed a hotspot on the wave or surge so I'm guessing no.
Some say an advantage to the the ST300/Rebar is that they are much more comfortable closed but the difference is smaller than one would think. Mostly because the wave is actually pretty nice closed.
@@EngineersPerspective701 Like I said before, I have seen multiple reviewers say the Charge is more ergonomic than the wave.
@@warblerab2955 don’t take my word then, handle one in a store and decide for yourself. It’s not a small difference so I’m confident you’ll understand
@@EngineersPerspective701 If I ever handle wave (I have already handled a charge +), I will decide for myself.
Charge tti is hands down the king!!!!
The charge g10 and the Victorinox spirit x are basically all I carry these days. The TTI always seemed so blocky to me
I have to disagree with most of this.
I'm not an engineer, but I have used both the wave and charge.
I use the charge + daily.
The differences are...
Gut hook
Better blade
Different/aesthetically pleasing scales
Smoother phosphor bronze washers
Belt clip
Half of 1 bit kit
And a slightly different sheeth.
The gut hook is something I use waaaayyy more then I ever thought, and for those of us that use the belt clip it comes with it as opposed to spending another 10 on top of the 100 for the wave.
I got the charge cuz my edc is sort of blackout, and I wanted the better steel, belt clip, and gut hook.
For 40 more, totally worth it for how much more you can do with what's supplied with the charge.
It’s all about what your personal use and needs! I didn’t use any of the included extras for years so they didn’t add any value for me. As for the functionality the tools are pretty comparable but it’s not all pros when you move to the charge from the wave.
They are stupid expensive in EU Charge black is 200€ and Titan is 250€ and that are best prices which I found and its yust too much for multi tool
It’s definitely too bad that the international prices are so out of control. Especially because the people that truly get the full utility out of them can’t afford prices like that.
It's probably due to having to be an import. We see the reverse side over here too where German Hazat brand tools are significantly more expensive stateside than Germans see.
THESE ARE TOOLS FOR OCCASIONS, FOR EMERGENCY, TO GET OUT OF A RUSH. THEY ARE NOT FOR ALL DAY WORK. FOR THAT I WOULD TAKE MY TOOL BOX. FOR THAT ALL WOULD BE PERFECT.
Can’t say I totally agree.
They are for helping a person do what needs doing. For some they may use it once a week for the odd task. For another it’s a tool that saves them a trip down from the rafters or back out to the van. To another, this plus a crescent wrench are all they need to complete a days work and get used every day.
It just depends on the person and what they’re doing.
Chage plus tti with titanium scales and s30v steel is my choice any day of the week. To me its worth the money
I've always felt the TTI handles were a bit blocky just feeling them in store which is what's kept me away but I know many that really like them. The G10 charges to me are really the best of all worlds
@@EngineersPerspective701 I bought mine online at bass pro. There was an option for orange g-10. I felt that titanium cost less and more premium material than g-10. Never had option to hold it in hand and feel difference see which one is more comfortable
Lmao,you negated your whole point of contention all by yourself. Sometimes it's better to just quit talking.
You’re hired as the editor! Where did I go wrong?
Perfect video for me. I have the wave + I was an hour from returning it to get the charge + ty for saving me money bud.
Sooo wrong. The Charge and the Surge are the best two options leatherman offers.
Gotta define “best” I guess!