I am the happy owner of a Leatherman New Wave. The original Leatherman Wave, from what I understand, was manufactured for several years prior to 2004. In 2004 the Wave received a makeover, in which a few features were redesigned. I have heard that the New Wave is slightly larger (but not by much), and some reports claim that the improvements were substantial.
I don’t know much about the pre-2004 Wave model, but I love my New Wave.
Here are some things to keep in mind when considering the Leatherman New Wave for filling your Belt Multitool slot in life:
The Wave is not as heavy or cumbersome as some people suggest. I barely notice it on my belt, and in my hand it feels solid, not heavy.
The plier movement is a little stiff at first, but this quickly gets smoother. Also, the glasses screw driver bit can be a little tough to get out (to reverse it) the first couple of times. It comes with both glasses screw driver heads – Phillips and flat head.
For the larger bit holder, it does come with a Phillips and flat head bit combination, and an extension set with 22 additional bits can be purchased for under $15 (I have yet to make this purchase, but I plan to – watch for a post here when I do).
The New Wave is simple. It doesn’t have too many more tools than you could see yourself using. The scissors are great, the pliers are wonderful, the knife is pretty good, and the saw is useful.
All things considered, I think this might be the tool for me. There are several by other major manufacturers that I haven’t tried (Gerber, SOG, and Victorinox, to name a few), and some of them seem to be pretty formidable tools. If I ever have the budget to buy things just to try them, I will have to give them a go. Until then, I’m glad I spent my money on a Leatherman New Wave.
As always:
If you own a New Wave, please tell me how you like it.
I’ve you’ve got something you think is better, let me know!
If you’re not quite sold, ask questions in the comments.
Remember to rate this item for me. Thanks.
Tags: favorite, knife, leatherman, multitool, product review, tool

February 18, 2010 at 10:24 pm |
[...] personal favorite is the Leatherman Charge TTi. This tool is a lot like the Leatherman New Wave (which I already reviewed), but with several key [...]