Compare › Leatherman Wave Plus vs Leatherman Surge
Leatherman Wave Plus vs Leatherman Surge
Leatherman Wave+ or Surge?
Short answer
The Surge is the heavy-duty sibling: about 4 oz heavier and 0.5 in longer, with larger blades and a blade exchanger that takes standard jigsaw blades. The tool lists are otherwise close. For pocket or belt carry the Wave+ is the easier tool to live with; the Surge makes sense when it lives in a truck or a work bag and bigger blades matter more than weight.
Choose the Leatherman Wave Plus if
- You carry it every day
- You want the lighter, shorter tool
Choose the Leatherman Surge if
- You want larger blades and jigsaw-blade compatibility
- Weight does not matter because it rides in a bag or vehicle
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 Wave Plus | Leatherman Surge |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 8.5 oz (241 g) | 12.5 oz (354 g) |
| Closed length | 4 in (102 mm) | 4.5 in (114 mm) |
| Functional tools | 17 | 18 |
| MSRP | $129.95 | $159.95 |
| Blade steel | 420HC | 420HC |
| One-hand opening blade | Yes | Yes |
| Locking tools | Yes | Yes |
| Blades reachable with tool closed | Yes | Yes |
| Pocket clip | Sold separately | No |
| Sheath | Sold separately | Sold separately |
| Bit system | Leatherman flat bits | Leatherman flat bits |
| Warranty | 25-year limited warranty | 25-year limited warranty |
Tool differences
nothing the other lacks
awl / reamer
needlenose pliers, regular pliers, wire cutter, hard-wire cutter, crimper, wire stripper, knife, serrated knife, saw, scissors, ruler, can opener, bottle opener, file, diamond-coated file, bit driver, flathead screwdriver
Tool types are counted once each, however the maker lists them. How we count tools.
Scores by use
| Use | Leatherman Wave Plus | Leatherman Surge |
|---|---|---|
| Camping | 78 | 62 |
| Cycling | 57 | 51 |
| Everyday carry | 70 | 60 |
| Fishing | 84 | 67 |
| All-round use | 85 | 68 |
| Hiking and backpacking | 59 | 57 |
| Work and trades | 91 | 72 |
Scores out of 100 from our published formula. Small gaps (under 3 points) are not meaningful.