Talking Tools: Leatherman Surge vs. Wave+ (Pro vs. Handyman)
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 6 ก.ย. 2024
- The Leatherman Wave has been the multitool gold standard for decades and its larger brother the Surge takes a lot of what makes the Wave amazing and upgrades the internal toolset for professional users. Not that the Wave can't be used in a pro environment but it would probably be best suited to complement other tools carried on person. The Wave really fills the niche in Leatherman's lineup as the handyman's tool. More for the everyday casual user fixing things around the house.
Nonaffiliated Links:
Surge: www.leatherman...
Wave+: www.leatherman...
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I actually do a lot of "professional" work but still prefer the wave plus because it is lighter and that is why I take it everywhere. If I need to do anything more heavy duty I just take my tool bag.
That's a great point. If a Wave can't handle it then a tool bag is likely a better option than a bigger Leatherman.
Hello,
I'm looking to purchase a Leatherman. I've watched a multitude of comparison videos on TH-cam; capturing Surge vs. Wave Plus features & applications.
This is the most helpful video I've viewed thus far, helping me choose the best multi-tool for me and my needs.
Thanks for creating this content.
Best,
JD
Love to hear that! It’s exactly why I made videos like this
I have the sidekick tool and thinking on buying new one for DIY. thanks for the review
I do like to have a leatherman for quick fixes but for full on DIY projects I will say that I have moved to using the full size tools for pretty much everything. Maybe consider that depending on what level of projects you're looking to tackle
@@EngineersPerspective701 I agree with you. I guess I am looking for an excuse to buy new toy :)
@@JustMorad lol, well you can’t have every tool with you all the time so you better buy one to get you out of a pinch then!
In my opinion I see a multitool as 3 things. Either edc, a backup tool, or a travel tool. And the one that hits all marks on these three points is the wave. Mainly for its weight to benefit ratio. The surge would be a better backup tool. But edc or travel either on foot or by plane or any type of vacation. Weight is going to be a factor. It's like the newbie backpacker who everyone laughs at when he carries all his fears on his back. The kitchen sink so to speak. Preparedness isn't about carrying your fears. It's about making smart choices and learning to use what you have. And not having to much you can travel with.
Agreed, it really comes down to what your "backup" situation is going to entail. For a millwright at the top of a bucket elevator it may be worth having the extra bulk of a surge that can accomplish a few more tasks if it saves a trip down 70' of ladder. For others, maybe not so much!
I agree 100% with you. I have a farm and while my Charge is decent as an edc the Surge is so much more capable. For example, cutting different wire gauges is easier with the Surge whereas my Charge stops sooner. Obviously dedicated fencing pliers are my go-to tool in that scenario but I want my back up to be able help if required.
It’s nice to have a true alternative for the times you forget or lose your main tool. Maybe working with a friend to knock something out too. So many scenarios when having as much firepower as possible is a must
Wave+ is Leatherman's best selling tool, but i like Surge's exchangeable saw adaptor. Wish Wave+ got an updated, also have an adaptor like that (w/o make it pricey 😅😁)
I never use the saw so having the file along with big, outside scissors is why I love the surge. I think the adapter would shorten the length of the saw/file too much but if they'd just make a Mini Surge without the saw I'd be happy!
@@EngineersPerspective701 indeed, mate. The outside scissor is useful. Hehehee its better normal size Surge, with mini price 🤣😹😂
I don't feel like reading all the comments, so apologies if it's already been said. I have the wave plus. I really like it. So I'm an electrician by trade, and I'll tell you right now, I am going to reach for any task specific tool on me before I reach for this. Let me explain. In my opinion, all leathermans are good in a pinch, but not to be relied on as your go-to tool. With the exception of the knife, they're slow and awkward. Now if I'm away from my tool bag and I need a tool that I didn't think to grab, hopefully my leatherman can save me a trip. If you are a pro and this is your go-to, you're gonna be putting that 25 year warranty to the test. I don't care which one you have. Again I love it "for what it was meant to be". Jack of all trades, master of none.
Totally agree but I think it kind of depends on who and what they do for how a Leatherman plays into their tool setup. For you it doesn't have a chance when compared to linesmans, dikes, needle nose and can't get the torque required for those big flathead terminals. Plus you've probably got a dedicated screwdriver for each type of screw so it's usefulness is limited because you need and have the full tools.
But what about a Handyman or plumber that does service calls. Maybe walks in to take an initial look and they see they can quick fix it with their leatherman so they do. Even if he needed to get more tools he may not grab any wire cutters, needle nose or screwdrivers because the leatherman is enough. Instead he gets his pipe wrench, crescent wrench or whatever.
Or if you're a process tech in a plant and you normally carry around a leatherman and water pump pliers because you're not on your tools 100% of the time. Use a the leatherman to clear out a small y-strainer on a sample loop or uncrew the back cap of an instrument to calibrate, etc.
So for the 3 scenarios it goes from a rarely used tool, to a supplemental tool that can replace a few, to a full blown toolbox that is replied upon as their main solution.
Personally I've been using them a lot less these days. I've been mostly at home for projects and my toolbag has better tools than those on a leatherman so I use the legit ones instead.
@@EngineersPerspective701 I agree. I get it. For the person who has a good idea of what he/she's getting into and knows they're only gonna use whatever tool lightly, the leatherman is a great tool to lighten the load per say. Everyone has different reasons for having one. I honestly bought it for home use and everyday carry. You never know what situation arises where you or someone might say " I wish I had a ..." or " does anyone have a .... by chance?" The best tool is the one you have.
@@justinmurphymusic4205 That’s how mine is getting used these days too. Love when someone says “I need a…” and my wife’s eyes roll because she knows what’s about to go down!
You can put in big long saws yes. But be warned that other t-shanks are thinner than the ones Leatherman gave you and those will be wobbly in spite of that little tension that is built into the adaptor. This adaptor is also not super strong so heavily using it for sawing branches might ruin it. It is not designed to saw thick things all day long.
Also I recently figured out that whenever I start doing work that requires heavy duty stuff I dont want to use a Surge because the real tools are still sooo much better than that multitool. That may be my personal taste though.
I have only ever used the factory saw and file so I can't speak much to the saw blade options out there. I have heard that many are thinner but there are videos of good options so that's where I'd look if I was truly interested in that.
I love having a multitool to get things done without going back to the toolbox, but like you said, the real tools are often A LOT better. Even a pair of Knipex Cobra XS pliers will blow away the surge pliers in performance. The thing is a multitool is a tool of convivence and I think most recognize that and roll with it.
Very Informative video. Both Leatherman Surge & Wave+ are useful in various miscellaneous activities.
For sure! It comes down to what a person runs into most during their day
The Surge is heavier than I expected. It's awesome, but it pulls my pants down on the side I'm carrying it on. For EDC, I use the skeletool (but I have no scissors like the great ones on the Surge or even the Wave).
Its weight is substantial but a quality belt can a long way with that! A lot of gun belts are good options. Skeletool plus a Victorinox with scissors is a personal favorite
I would rather trade the serrated blade on the Surge to be able to have both a full-time file and full-time saw. I'm a firm believed that if you maintain your straight knife blade and keep it sharp, you don't need a serrated blade. And how many flat screwdriver blades do you really need? On surge you've got 2 larger ones on one side, and the there's a decent one on the reversible bit on the other.
I do agree with that sentiment and used to also apply it to scissors. However, my mind has changed somewhat over time. I've definitely been in situations where I've been using the main blade over the day and then come into contact with thicker rope that the serrated blade made MUCH easier to handle. Honestly I tend not to use the saw much so it's a good trade for me anyway.
Personally I like al the flateheads. I want a big, medium and small if possible. The ST300 is perfection on that front, exactly what I need on that front
@@EngineersPerspective701 I guess it really depends what/how you use your multi-tool for. I want my multi-tool to be able to handle unexpected tasks. Not a specific set of tasks. I may need to file some metal. I may need to saw a small piece of PVC pipe or wood. I definitely understand a serrated blade can make shorter work of say rope than a straight edge blade. But, a straight edge can get the job done. So when picking between straight edge blade, saw, file, and serrated blade, the serrated blade is a nice to have blade. But, not at the expense of any of the other 3. But, if you use your multi-tool for a specific set of tasks, you know what tools you need to get the job done.
Thank you, this was very helpful. I’m going to get the Surge.
You won't regret it. It's a tool that gets jobs done
The Surge is definitely a more Heavy Duty tool as it is a bit bigger and bulkier and for the regards probably a bit stronger. But I have done a variety of work with my Wave and now recently Charge Tti, except farm fences, from cutting beef jerky to stripping electric wires, holding down bolts to cut with a grinder, using all the screw drivers and bit driver, the eyeglass I think they call it-screwdriver I have used MANY times for things like watches or small items that needs stripping. The dedicated saw blade I have also used for cutting any branches up to about two inches in diameter and its just a champ. Do like all Leatherman multitools!
To me, the Wave is the entry-level tool and the Surge is the "professional" one. I own both.
I don't think it's quite fair to call the Wave entry-level because it is a nice tool that does a lot. But the Surge is definitely the Pro tool
Best Ambidextrous demonstration I have ever seen!
Thank you! I'm surprised because my left hand is nearly worthless for most tasks!
for electrician that small screw driver is useful (to open din rail terminal blocks). I have rebar and i wuold love5 to have it or even trade lanyard ring and some small flat screwdriver for that tiny screw driver.
Good to know!
If it was even 20% larger it would be infinitely more useful for me. It's so close to being big enough but never is.
I do however like to use it as a small punch!
@@EngineersPerspective701 (abb Lock Door Mounted Handle) most of there doors have small hole to reset handle so that tiny screw drivers is definitely would be useful for some electricians. My question. What scissors would you choose - wave's or Victorinox? I wondering if i should upgrade my rebar to wave or just do a mod and add Victorinox scissors?
@@VideoBite victorinox scissors over the wave by a lot! The wave scissors are okay but Vic 91mm scissors are in a league on their own. I’d personally love to mod a set onto my wave and switch the internal scissors for an awl
Good analysis. I wish you'd included a link to those little pliers in the description.
Thanks! Look for Knipex 125mm Cobra pliers
Good vid...I have both always hard to decide which one to carry.
It's a tough choice to make!
Get the surge !
A good wallet (Ridge Wallet)
A good light ( Fenix PD36TAC)
A good knife (Spyderco Endura K390)
And the Surge
Ive never been in a dad to day situation that I couldn't figure out with that set
Edit: I do like the free P4.
Instant credibility when K390 is on the list! Although I'm more of a surefire/streamlight kind of guy. Even though it's doubling up a bit, the Victorinox compact is always in my left pocket is critical for dad to day operations too
I'd recommend the lighter, more manageable sized Wave unless you're a big man with big hands who does a lot of heavy duty tasks.
It’s those internal tools that really push it one way or the other for me. If you want the smaller/lighter tool plus the internals then the rebar makes a good case. Honestly working at home the wave/charge is my go to though.
@@EngineersPerspective701 The Wave's biggest advantage over the Rebar is its outside accessible tools. Second biggest advantage is the bit exchanger. Third is the diamond file. Fourth is scissors. The order of these is debatable. It's disadvantages are the eyeglass driver, bulk & weight, cost, and lack of an awl or pocket clip. Enter the Curl. It keeps every advantage and eliminates or lessens every disadvantage.
@@dpg227 Also handle comfort when using the pliers is a major factor in favor of the wave. I did a video comparing the two hitting all those points. Personally wouldn’t say one is better than another but I can’t get past the lack of diamond file and the handle comfort.
@@EngineersPerspective701 The Rebar, unlike the PST, has the sheets of metal making up the tool compartment folded over to provide a comfortable grip when using the pliers. It's not as rounded as the Wave, but it never hurt my hand. And I never got what was so great about the diamond file. But hey, there are no right or wrong answers here.
@@dpg227 Exactly, all about personal preferences! Rebar is night and day better than the PST but the wave is just so comfy!
Bought the surge generation 1 for $60. Great deal
Nice find!
@@EngineersPerspective701 it didn’t come with a file or sheath but I’m fine with that
@@appleztooranges does the original fit the new file?
If not check out the Leatherman tool user group on Facebook! Someone there will be able to help you find one if you like!
How about the charge plus? Titanium or g10 although ti looks good.
G10. Can’t stand the blocky feel of the Ti
Only thing I hate about the surge is that they wanted a bunch of tool slots by giving u 3 damn flatheads
I'm torn about it personally. Both the large and small ones have very useful applications for me. However the one on the bit exchanger is silly. I always swap the one it comes with for the #1/#2 philips bit. Would prefer a #2/#3 philips bit but they don't make one
That's one thing that turns me off of the super tool. It has 3 damn flat heads. Also if you use the tool A LOT ist rough on the hands. Probably going to upgrade to a surge since the grip is more ergonomic and all of the main used tools are accessible on the outside.
How does the sissors of the wave work on fishingline ?
Great on monofilament and has worked fine on braided
@@EngineersPerspective701 thanks for the quick response. Helps me alot to choose a multitool
It's fine for fishing line ,struggles with rope but you have a knife for that..
Does the surge offer a serrated blade with gut hook? Or is the charge blade compatible with the surge
Has the standard serrated. You can install a charge version if you like
Look identical to me.
In the eyes of the beholder
For a mountain biker/hiker which should i consider buying? Surge or the wave weight is not a problem it Would really help alot :)
Is it more backpacking/bikepacking or just day trips?
Either way I’d definitely say the surge and get the bit kit so you have a variety of hex bits for the parts on your bike. If you didn’t have the bike I’d possibly push you toward the super tool 300 for less weight. But I think being able to tune your bike with the different bits while you’re out there is a must
@@EngineersPerspective701 Backpacking mostly
Thanks I will buy the surge thank you so much this helped me alot :)
@@bastits9834 so glad to help! Enjoy yourself out there!
@@EngineersPerspective701 Does the T shank blade exchanger have any blade play?
@@bastits9834 the ones included from Leatherman do have slight play but I’ve never once had an issue with it during use. Saws from other manufacturers can have more play if they use a thinner stock but I haven’t used them so I can’t speak to it really
my english is bad... me suscribo a tu canal, me agradan los videos, un saludo
Mi Español es malo
Muchas gracias! Espero que disfrutéis del video!
@@EngineersPerspective701 of course tks, acabo de comprar la Surge y viene en camino la Wave 👍
I have been watching comparison videos for a good while now. I want to purchase just one and I want it to be the right one. I know the wave can be pocketed much easier. But decided whichever one i get I will use the sheath. But there is not one video on how they carry, for everyday carry whether at work or anywhere else. I really want the surge, but will I regret it? Is it too large? Will it look odd on the belt. Will it pull my pants down? Especially if I take a piss ..Will it get in the way of a tool belt or a harness? Buckling up the seat belt along with comfort is one of my biggest concerns.. is it so big that it will draw unwanted attention? Can it be drawn out and put back in the same as a smaller one? Is it so thick that it could catch and or hang on things like doorways, handrail stairs, safety gates, people will carry them like an apparel, But just How do they carry in real time?. All videos compare them sitting side-by-side but not in the pocket, on the hip or in actual use as a everyday and or everywhere carry. The person that addresses these real concerns will have the best, most accurate and thorough review. And will eventually received the most hits..
Very excellent point and you better believe I’ll be making that video! I will also attempt to answer via text though so you don’t have to wait.
Surge
1) way too bulky for pocket carry by a wide margin.
2) carried in the black sheath shown it can infrequently hang up on doorways. This becomes significantly worse if you add 1 of the bit kit sleeves and worse yet if you have both in there
3) it will pull down your pants if you don’t have a good belt or tighten it up. And definitely while you’re peeing.
4) wave or surge will very much so get in the way of harnesses (lots of experience here) and probably tool belts too
5) not a big issue with seatbelts if carried on the left hip and in the drivers seat for sure. Don’t think it’s a problem if it’s on the other hip either
6) doesn’t really draw any more attention than a wave would
7) can be drawn out and returned to the sheath just the same as a wave. Assuming you’re using the shown sheath. How much stuff you put there will greatly affect this but even then it’s usually not a two handed affair
The charge is a tool u can survive with more than a medium tool too me.
I agree it’s dependable enough to survive urban or wild situations. Just the tools and leverage do limit what it can do