Leatherman Wave v Leatherman Surge
Today we take a look at comparing two of the most popular Leatherman products that we sell – the Leatherman Wave and the Leatherman Surge.
The Leatherman Surge is well known as being one of Leatherman’s best products, it tops the Classic series and is loaded with 18 different tools and 2 exchangeable bits – more are available with the Leatherman Bit Kit. The Surge is equipped with Leatherman’s largest pliers and longest blades of all Leatherman multi tools currently offered. Additionally it boasts a unique blade exchanger allowing the saw and diamond/wood file blades to be swapped out. Make no mistake about it, this is a tough multi tool designed for serious use on a regular basis.
The Leatherman Wave is slightly smaller than the Leatherman Surge, it measures 4 inches long when in the closed position against 4.5 inches of the Surge. Packed with 17 tools and 2 exchangeable bits (again more are available when the Leatherman Bit Kit is purchased) the Leatherman Wave tops the sales charts as the most popular Leatherman multi tool ever sold by Leatherman since its launch. Its biggest selling point at the time of launch and up to the present day is its outside accessible blades that allow the user to pull out blades and tools using just one hand and without having to open the product into the pliers position. The Wave underwent a basic redesign back in 2004 when Leatherman introduced larger knife blades, stronger pliers, slightly longer wire cutters and all locking blades that enhanced user safety.
The Surge is perhaps more likely to be favoured by outdoor enthusiasts, DIY specialists and professional tradesman due to its larger pliers, larger blades plus solid feel and construction. Another popular feature is the interchangeable blades. The Surge is ideal for this list of activities amongst many other things:
- Emergency Work
- Hunting
- Military
- Off Road
- Trades
A popular selling point of the Leatherman Wave is its size and weight, it is ideal for carrying in your pocket or in the belt sheath supplied with the tool (two options are currently available from part leather/part nylon to all nylon). Weighing in at 8.5oz against the 12.5oz of the Surge, it’s perfect for everyday carry. The Wave is hugely popular internationally and ideal for general use plus the following list of activities:
- Boating
- Camping
- Emergency Work
- Fishing
- Hunting
- Military
- Trades
When weighing up which of the two products to purchase, it needs to be remembered that the Surge is heavier than the Wave and perhaps more noticeable to carry. It is supplied with one of two sheath options that are the same in appearance to those offered with the Wave; however it could be said that the Surge is easier to carry in your pack.
Overall, whether you intend to use the Leatherman Wave or Leatherman Surge, or both – several customers do use both and some use even more multi tools and knives in the range – it is perhaps easier to base you purchasing decision for one or the other on the size and weight of the tool. If you are looking for a product that is easy to carry and therefore can be kept with you most of the time, then opt for the Wave. If you require a tool that you can take on adventures with you and carry in your pack, or need to tackle more challenging tasks or jobs, the Surge is possibly the better option.
Either way, both are super tools that have retained their popularity since their creation and owning one or the other is a privilege.