Compare › Leatherman Rebar vs Leatherman Wave Plus
Leatherman Rebar vs Leatherman Wave Plus
Leatherman Rebar or Wave+?
Short answer
The Rebar costs $30 less and is about 2 oz lighter, but every blade sits inside the handles, so you open the pliers to reach anything, and it has no scissors and no bit driver. The Wave+ adds outside one-hand blades, scissors and a bit driver. If you mostly use the pliers and want a lighter, cheaper tool, the Rebar is enough; if you reach for the knife or scissors daily, the Wave+ earns its price.
Choose the Leatherman Rebar if
- You mostly use the pliers and cutters
- You want to save weight and money
Choose the Leatherman Wave Plus if
- You want blades you can open with one hand without unfolding the tool
- You need scissors or a bit driver
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 Rebar | Leatherman Wave Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 6.6 oz (189 g) | 8.5 oz (241 g) |
| Closed length | 4 in (102 mm) | 4 in (102 mm) |
| Functional tools | 16 | 17 |
| MSRP | $99.95 | $129.95 |
| Blade steel | 420HC | 420HC |
| One-hand opening blade | No | Yes |
| Locking tools | Yes | Yes |
| Blades reachable with tool closed | No | Yes |
| Pocket clip | No | Sold separately |
| Sheath | Sold separately | Sold separately |
| Bit system | None | Leatherman flat bits |
| Warranty | 25-year limited warranty | 25-year limited warranty |
Tool differences
awl / reamer, phillips screwdriver
scissors, diamond-coated file, bit driver
needlenose pliers, regular pliers, wire cutter, hard-wire cutter, crimper, wire stripper, knife, serrated knife, saw, ruler, can opener, bottle opener, file, flathead screwdriver
Tool types are counted once each, however the maker lists them. How we count tools.
Scores by use
| Use | Leatherman Rebar | Leatherman Wave Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Camping | 64 | 78 |
| Cycling | 43 | 57 |
| Everyday carry | 52 | 70 |
| Fishing | 66 | 84 |
| All-round use | 70 | 85 |
| Hiking and backpacking | 44 | 59 |
| Work and trades | 72 | 91 |
Scores out of 100 from our published formula. Small gaps (under 3 points) are not meaningful.