Leatherman Charge Vs. Wave: My Hands-On Battle Between Two Everyday Heroes

I’ve carried multi-tools for years, fixing everything from bike chains on trails to loose screws in the garage.

The Leatherman Wave+ and Charge+ TTi stand out as flagship options. This article breaks down my real-world experiences to help you decide which fits your pocket and needs best—whether for daily tasks or tougher jobs.

Key Differences Between The Leatherman Charge And Wave

After years of switching between them, I’ve felt every subtle shift that separates these tools. They share the same DNA—strong pliers, locking blades, replaceable cutters—but the upgrades on the Charge+ TTi add up in ways that matter for heavy use.

• Blade Steel and Edge Performance — The Wave+’s 420HC steel is forgiving and easy to sharpen with basic stones; I can get it hair-popping sharp in minutes on a trail. But it dulls faster on abrasive materials like cardboard stacks or rope. The Charge+’s CPM S30V is a beast—it holds that factory edge through weeks of daily cutting, from whittling stakes to slicing apples. I’ve tested both on the same tasks, and the S30V needs half the touch-ups.
• Handle Materials and Ergonomics — Stainless on the Wave+ feels bombproof but cold in winter and slick when wet. Titanium on the Charge+ warms quicker, grips better in sweaty hands, and resists scratches. The Charge+ is slightly thicker, which fills larger hands nicely but can dig into pockets more.
• Tool Set Trade-Offs — Wave+ has dedicated spring-loaded scissors I use constantly for everything from fishing line to packaging. Charge+ swaps full scissors for a serrated blade with an integrated cutting hook—perfect for safe, controlled cuts on seatbelts, zip ties, or paracord without risking the plain blade. Charge+ also adds electrical crimpers in the pliers base, handy for wiring fixes.
• Deployment and One-Handed Use — Wave+ pioneered outside-accessible blades, saw, and file—flick them open without unfolding. Charge+ goes further: every single tool opens one-handed, even internals like drivers. When holding something in one hand, this saves frustration.
• Weight and Carry Feel — Charge+ shaves nearly half an ounce thanks to titanium, noticeable on long hikes. But its thicker profile makes pocket clips wobblier for some users. Wave+ sits slimmer and forgets it’s there.
• Accessories and Value Adds — Wave+ ships with a basic nylon sheath. Charge+ includes a better leather/nylon sheath, removable pocket clip, lanyard ring, and partial bit kit—extras that cost $50+ separately on the Wave+.
• Build Quality Nuances — Both are tanks with 25-year warranties. Wave+ often feels tighter with zero play. Some Charge+ units show minor handle flex or blade play over time, though Leatherman fixes issues promptly.
• Specialized Features — Charge+ has a blasting cap crimper (niche but there), smoother bronze bushings, and better corrosion resistance from titanium.

These aren’t night-and-day differences, but they tilt the Charge+ toward premium daily grind and the Wave+ toward unbeatable reliability at lower cost.

Key Features of The Leatherman Wave+

My Wave+ is the one I reach for instinctively—it’s balanced, reliable, and packed with tools that get daily use without any fuss.

• Needle-Nose Pliers — The tips are fine enough to pull out a splinter or grab tiny screws, yet the bases provide leverage for twisting heavy wire or bending metal. They spring back smoothly every time.
• Regular Pliers — Great for gripping flats like nuts or holding parts steady while you work with another tool.
• Premium Replaceable Wire Cutters — These bypass cutters handle hard wire like piano string without nicking, and when they eventually wear, you pop in new ones for pennies—extending the tool’s life indefinitely.
• Hard-Wire Cutters — Dedicated notch for thicker, tougher cables that would damage standard cutters.
• Electrical Crimper — No, wait—that’s not on the Wave+; it’s a clean plier design without interruptions.
• 420HC Straight Blade — Drop-point style for versatile slicing; easy to sharpen on a basic stone, gets razor-sharp quickly for food prep or precise cuts.
• 420HC Serrated Blade — Sheepfoot shape with aggressive teeth for rope, seatbelts, or fibrous materials; stays useful even when dull.
• Spring-Action Scissors — Full-size and sharp; I cut everything from fishing line to cardboard, cloth, or even thin plastic—spring makes repetitive snips effortless.
• Wood/Metal File — Three-sided with coarse, fine, and diamond-coated surfaces for smoothing wood, metal edges, or sharpening hooks.
• Saw — Double-toothed design rips through branches, dowels, or PVC pipe aggressively but controllably.
• Large Bit Driver — Holds standard 1/4-inch bits securely for torque on bigger screws.
• Small Bit Driver — Perfect for eyeglass screws or delicate electronics.
• Can Opener and Bottle Opener — Sturdy and foolproof.
• Ruler — 8 inches/19 cm etched for quick measurements.
• Wire Stripper — Notched for clean insulation removal.
• All-Locking Implements — Every tool locks open with a liner lock for safe, high-pressure use.

The Wave+ feels like a complete workshop in your pocket—nothing flashy, just pure utility that covers 99% of fixes I encounter.

Also Read: Differences Between Leatherman Surge And Charge.

Pros And Cons of The Leatherman Wave+

I’ve owned multiple Wave+ tools over the years, and I’ve pushed them hard—from construction sites to backpacking trips. Here’s the unfiltered truth about what makes it shine and where it falls short.

Pros

• Insane Bang for Your Buck — For around $120, you get a full-size, 18-tool multi-tool that rivals anything twice the price in everyday capability. It’s the reason the Wave+ has been Leatherman’s bestseller for over a decade—most people simply don’t need more than this.
• Best-in-Class Spring-Action Scissors — These are large, sharp, and incredibly useful. I’ve used them to trim bandages on a hiking injury, cut fishing line precisely, open blister packaging in stores, snip zip ties, and even trim my beard in a pinch. The spring action reduces hand fatigue during repetitive cuts, and they’re stronger than the tiny scissors on many competitors.
• Slim and Pocket-Friendly Design — The stainless handles keep the closed profile relatively thin. It slides into jeans pockets without printing much, and with an aftermarket deep-carry clip, it virtually disappears. I forget it’s there until I need it.
• Super Easy Blade Maintenance — 420HC steel is soft enough that I can restore a shaving-sharp edge in under five minutes with a basic pocket sharpener or even a ceramic mug bottom in the field. Perfect for users who don’t want to invest in diamond stones or guided systems.
• Bombproof Long-Term Reliability — My oldest Wave+ is over twelve years old and still tight with zero blade play or handle wobble. The replaceable wire cutters mean I’ve swapped them twice and the tool feels brand new again. Leatherman’s 25-year warranty is real—I’ve used it.
• Outside-Accessible Core Tools — Being able to flick open the plain blade, serrated blade, saw, or file without unfolding the pliers is a massive time-saver. I’ve done trailside bike repairs or quick package opening in seconds.
• Comfortable Ergonomics for Prolonged Use — The rounded handle edges don’t create hot spots even when squeezing hard on pliers for extended periods. Medium to large hands find it perfect; smaller hands still manage well.
• Versatile Tool Combination for Generalists — The saw + scissors + file trio covers outdoor, home, and office tasks beautifully. I’ve cleared brush on trails, filed splinters smooth, and cut cardboard all in one afternoon.
• Readily Available Parts and Accessories — Because it’s so popular, third-party sheaths, clips, bit kits, and even custom scales are everywhere and affordable.

Cons

• Blade Edge Retention is Average at Best — If you cut a lot of cardboard, rope, or abrasive materials daily, you’ll find yourself touching up the 420HC blades every few days. It’s workable, but noticeably behind premium steels.
• Stainless Handles Get Cold and Slippery — In winter or when your hands are wet/sweaty, the bare metal loses grip and feels icy. Gloves help, but titanium or coated handles are superior here.
• No Premium Accessories Included — You get a basic nylon sheath and nothing else. Want a pocket clip, lanyard ring, or bit kit? That’s another $30–$50 on top.
• Slightly Heavier Than Titanium Models — At 8.5 ounces, it’s not heavy, but when you’re counting grams on ultralight hikes, you feel the difference compared to lighter options.
• Lacks Specialized Cutting Hook — For controlled pulls through seatbelts, heavy strapping, or thick packaging tape, you’re stuck using the serrated blade point-first, which feels less safe and precise.
• No Integrated Electrical Crimpers — If you do any auto wiring, trailer lights, or basic electrical work, you’ll miss the dedicated crimper found on the Charge+.
• Internal Tools Require Two Hands — While external tools deploy fast, getting to the bit drivers or can opener means fully opening the pliers first—not ideal when one hand is holding a part.
• Can Feel “Basic” Next to Premium Models — Once you’ve handled titanium and S30V, the Wave+ feels good but not luxurious.

The Wave+ is the rational, everyday champion. It does everything most of us need without making us pay for features we rarely use.

Key Features of The Leatherman Charge+ TTi

The Charge+ TTi steps it up with premium touches that make heavy or frequent use feel luxurious and capable.

• Needle-Nose and Regular Pliers — Similar strength to the Wave+, but with integrated electrical crimper in the base—perfect for pressing connectors on wires without a separate tool.
• Premium Replaceable Wire Cutters — Same durable, swappable design, handling hard wire effortlessly.
• Hard-Wire Cutters — Dedicated for toughest cables.
• S30V Straight Blade — Clip-point or drop-point in premium steel; corrosion-resistant, holds a working edge through days of cutting cardboard, wood, or rope—I’ve gone weeks without sharpening.
• 154CM or S30V Serrated Blade with Cutting Hook — The hook at the base pulls through tough materials like webbing, zip ties, or seatbelts safely, without exposing a sharp point toward you.
• Spring-Action Scissors — Smaller than Wave+’s but still sharp and useful for light tasks.
• Wood/Metal File and Diamond File — Same versatile three-sided design.
• Saw — Identical aggressive performance for wood or plastic.
• Large and Small Bit Drivers — Dual drivers with smoother action.
• Can and Bottle Opener — Reliable as ever.
• 8-Inch Ruler — Etched clearly.
• Wire Stripper — Precise notches.
• Blasting Cap Crimper — Niche groove in pliers for specialized tasks.
• Titanium Handles — Lightweight, warm to touch, highly corrosion-resistant, and premium feel that resists scratches better.
• Bronze Bushings — Smoother pivot for all tools, less friction over time.
• Removable Pocket Clip and Lanyard Ring — Included for secure carry options.
• Partial Bit Kit — Comes with common double-ended bits right in the box.

The Charge+ TTi shines when you demand longevity from the blade, need the hook or crimpers regularly, or want that lighter, refined carry experience.

Also Read: Differences Between Leatherman Wave And Wave Plus.

Pros And Cons of The Leatherman Charge+ TTi

My Charge+ TTi is the one I baby a little more—it’s the “nice” multi-tool I carry when I want to feel prepared for anything and enjoy the premium experience.

Pros

• Phenomenal Edge Retention from S30V Steel — The primary blade stays usefully sharp through weeks of heavy cutting. I’ve processed dozens of cardboard boxes, whittled firewood, and sliced food without needing a touch-up. When it finally dulls, it still pushes cuts longer than 420HC.
• Titanium Handles Feel Luxurious and Practical — Lighter overall feel in hand, warmer to the touch in cold weather, better natural grip when sweaty, and far superior corrosion resistance if you work near saltwater or sweat heavily.
• True One-Handed Operation for Every Tool — This is huge. Every single implement—including internal ones like drivers and openers—can be accessed and opened with one hand. I’ve done repairs while holding flashlights, parts, or even my phone in the other hand.
• Incredibly Useful Cutting Hook — The gut hook on the serrated blade is a revelation for opening thick packaging, cutting seatbelts in emergencies, slicing heavy strapping, or pulling through zip ties safely. It’s faster and safer than using a pointed blade.
• Built-In Electrical Crimpers — Perfectly placed in the plier base for crimping insulated and non-insulated connectors. I’ve fixed trailer wiring, added accessories to vehicles, and done household electrical projects without reaching for a dedicated crimper.
• More Complete Out-of-Box Experience — Comes with a removable pocket clip, lanyard ring, premium nylon/leather sheath, and a partial bit kit. You’re ready to carry and use it the moment it arrives.
• Smoother Overall Action — Bronze bushings and refined tolerances make opening and closing tools feel silky, even after years of use.
• Lighter Perceived Carry Weight — Despite similar listed weight, the titanium distribution makes it feel less fatiguing on the belt or in pocket over full days.
• Heirloom-Quality Build and Aesthetics — The brushed titanium scales resist scratches better, and the overall fit/finish screams premium. It’s the multi-tool you’re proud to hand down.
• Better Corrosion Resistance for Harsh Environments — If you boat, fish, or live in humid climates, titanium won’t pit or rust like stainless can over decades.
• Niche but Handy Extras — The blasting cap crimper groove, smoother bit driver engagement, and included bits add small but appreciated versatility.

Cons

• Steep Price Premium — At $170–$200, you’re paying 50–70% more than the Wave+ for upgrades that not everyone will fully utilize. It stings if you’re budget-conscious.
• Thicker Closed Profile — The titanium scales add bulk, making deep pocket carry less comfortable than the slimmer Wave+. The pocket clip can feel slightly less secure on thinner fabrics.
• Cutting Hook Can Snag — When drawing from a pocket quickly, the hook occasionally catches on fabric or pocket liners—annoying until you learn the right draw technique.
• Scissors Are Smaller and Less Capable — The Charge+ has spring-action scissors, but they’re noticeably smaller than the Wave+’s. Heavy fabric, thick tape, or repetitive snipping favors the Wave+.
• Potential for Minor Handle Play Over Time — Some long-term users (including me on one unit) report slight side-to-side play in the handles after very heavy use. Leatherman fixes it under warranty, but the Wave+ tends to stay tighter.
• Overkill for Casual or Light-Duty Users — If your multi-tool mostly opens packages and tightens occasional screws, the premium steel, hook, and crimpers will go largely unused.
• Heavier Than Pure Titanium Competitors — While lighter than all-steel tools, it’s not as light as dedicated titanium models from other brands.
• Premium Steel Requires Better Sharpening Gear — S30V needs diamond stones or guided systems to sharpen properly. Field touch-ups are harder than with 420HC.
• Higher Resale Expectation — Because you paid more, you feel the scratches or wear more emotionally than on a cheaper tool.

Also Read: Differences Between Leatherman Wave And Surge.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

My Personal Experiences and Recommendation

My Wave+ handled garage overhauls, trail fixes, even emergency repairs—scissors snipped bandages, saw cleared fallen branches, pliers pulled nails effortlessly. It never complained.

Switching to Charge+ TTi, the lighter weight and sharper blade shone on extended trips; hook sliced packaging cleanly, crimpers fixed trailer wiring. Titanium gripped better during rainy jobs.

For budget, versatility, scissors needs—Wave+. For blade longevity, one-hand mastery, premium feel—Charge+.

You pick based on your hands and tasks. Both legendary; grab the one matching your adventures.