Compare › Leatherman Wave Plus vs Victorinox Swiss Tool Spirit X
Leatherman Wave Plus vs Victorinox Swiss Tool Spirit X
Leatherman Wave+ or Victorinox Swiss Tool Spirit X?
Short answer
Both are full-size tools with locking, outside-accessible blades. The Spirit X is about 1 oz lighter, adds a metal saw, chisel and pry tool, and comes with a sheath. The Wave+ has one-hand opening blades, replaceable wire cutters and a bit driver. Choose the Wave+ for one-hand use and bits; choose the Spirit X for a lighter tool with more fixed tools and a sheath in the box.
Choose the Leatherman Wave Plus if
- You want to open the blades with one hand
- You want a bit driver and replaceable wire cutters
Choose the Victorinox Swiss Tool Spirit X if
- You want a sheath included and a lighter tool
- You need a metal saw or chisel
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 | Victorinox Swiss Tool Spirit X |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 8.5 oz (241 g) | 7.4 oz (209 g) |
| Closed length | 4 in (102 mm) | 4.13 in (105 mm) |
| Functional tools | 17 | 18 |
| MSRP | $129.95 | $145 |
| Blade steel | 420HC | Not stated |
| One-hand opening blade | Yes | No |
| Locking tools | Yes | Yes |
| Blades reachable with tool closed | Yes | Yes |
| Pocket clip | Sold separately | No |
| Sheath | Sold separately | Included |
| Bit system | Leatherman flat bits | None |
| Warranty | 25-year limited warranty | Lifetime warranty |
Tool differences
regular pliers, hard-wire cutter, serrated knife, ruler, diamond-coated file, bit driver
pry bar / nail puller, wire bender, awl / reamer, hook (fish scaler, pulling hook): null, metal saw, phillips screwdriver, chisel / scraper
needlenose pliers, wire cutter, crimper, wire stripper, knife, saw, scissors, 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 Wave Plus | Victorinox Swiss Tool Spirit X |
|---|---|---|
| Camping | 78 | 66 |
| Cycling | 57 | 43 |
| Everyday carry | 70 | 60 |
| Fishing | 84 | 69 |
| All-round use | 85 | 70 |
| Hiking and backpacking | 59 | 52 |
| Work and trades | 91 | 67 |
Scores out of 100 from our published formula. Small gaps (under 3 points) are not meaningful.