Compare › Leatherman ARC vs Leatherman Wave Plus
Leatherman ARC vs Leatherman Wave Plus
Is the Leatherman ARC worth $120 more than the Wave+?
Short answer
The two weigh about the same and share most tools. The ARC adds a MagnaCut blade, a pry tool, magnetic one-hand access to every tool including the pliers, and a pocket clip in the box. The Wave+ keeps a serrated blade and a ruler that the ARC drops, and costs about half as much. Pay for the ARC if blade steel and one-hand access matter to you every day; otherwise the Wave+ does the same jobs.
Choose the Leatherman ARC if
- You want the best blade steel Leatherman offers
- You want pocket-clip carry without buying an accessory
Choose the Leatherman Wave Plus if
- You want a serrated blade
- You would rather spend the difference on bits or a sheath
Based on published manufacturer specifications cross-checked against a second source. We have not tested these two tools side by side. This verdict is awaiting editorial review.
Specs side by side
| Spec | Leatherman ARC | Leatherman Wave Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 8.6 oz (244 g) | 8.5 oz (241 g) |
| Closed length | 4.25 in (108 mm) | 4 in (102 mm) |
| Functional tools | 17 | 17 |
| MSRP | $249.95 | $129.95 |
| Blade steel | MagnaCut | 420HC |
| One-hand opening blade | Yes | Yes |
| Locking tools | Yes | Yes |
| Blades reachable with tool closed | Yes | Yes |
| Pocket clip | Included | Sold separately |
| Sheath | Sold separately | Sold separately |
| Bit system | Leatherman flat bits | Leatherman flat bits |
| Warranty | 25-year limited warranty | 25-year limited warranty |
Tool differences
pry bar / nail puller, awl / reamer
serrated knife, ruler
knife, needlenose pliers, regular pliers, bit driver, diamond-coated file, file, wire cutter, hard-wire cutter, flathead screwdriver, bottle opener, can opener, scissors, saw, wire stripper, crimper
Tool types are counted once each, however the maker lists them. How we count tools.
Scores by use
| Use | Leatherman ARC | Leatherman Wave Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Camping | 82 | 78 |
| Cycling | 58 | 57 |
| Everyday carry | 73 | 70 |
| Fishing | 80 | 84 |
| All-round use | 86 | 85 |
| Hiking and backpacking | 64 | 59 |
| Work and trades | 92 | 91 |
Scores out of 100 from our published formula. Small gaps (under 3 points) are not meaningful.