Compare › Leatherman Wave Plus vs Leatherman Wave Alpha
Leatherman Wave Plus vs Leatherman Wave Alpha
Leatherman Wave+ or Wave Alpha?
Short answer
The Wave Alpha is a reworked Wave: MagnaCut blade, the largest outside scissors on any Leatherman plier tool, G10 scales and an awl, for $70 more. It drops the Wave+'s serrated blade and ruler. If you use the scissors and main blade most, the Alpha is a real upgrade; if you want the widest tool list for the money, the Wave+ still makes more sense.
Choose the Leatherman Wave Plus if
- You want a serrated blade and a ruler
- You want the classic Wave at a lower price
Choose the Leatherman Wave Alpha if
- You use scissors often and want them full-size and outside
- You want MagnaCut blade steel
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 Wave Alpha |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 8.5 oz (241 g) | 8.3 oz (234 g) |
| Closed length | 4 in (102 mm) | 4.04 in (103 mm) |
| Functional tools | 17 | 16 |
| MSRP | $129.95 | $199.95 |
| Blade steel | 420HC | MagnaCut |
| One-hand opening blade | Yes | Yes |
| Locking tools | Yes | Yes |
| Blades reachable with tool closed | Yes | Yes |
| Pocket clip | Sold separately | 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
serrated knife, ruler
awl / reamer
needlenose pliers, regular pliers, wire cutter, hard-wire cutter, crimper, wire stripper, knife, saw, scissors, 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 Wave Alpha |
|---|---|---|
| Camping | 78 | 83 |
| Cycling | 57 | 59 |
| Everyday carry | 70 | 72 |
| Fishing | 84 | 82 |
| All-round use | 85 | 87 |
| Hiking and backpacking | 59 | 65 |
| Work and trades | 91 | 90 |
Scores out of 100 from our published formula. Small gaps (under 3 points) are not meaningful.