In this review, we’re pitting the Wave vs Diesel in an all-out battle for multitool supremacy. If you’ve considered either of these multitools, then you already know they are some of the best multitools you can find. Let’s compare the two and see which comes out ahead.
Leatherman Wave Multitool
Leatherman is the leader in multitools and their updated Leatherman Wave is set to deliver an even better tool that can accomplish almost any task. The Wave is Leatherman’s best-selling tool, and with good reason.
Leatherman Wave Multitool
Click to check the price at Amazon.
The wave was built to mimic a pocket knife in that many of the tools can be used without fully opening it. Every tool feature on the Leatherman Wave can be operated with one hand.
Our cost per tool analysis indicates the Wave Plus has a cost ratio of $5.55 for every tool it’s equipped with. This is middle of the pack compared to other Leatherman Multitools.
The Leatherman Wave features the following 17 tools:
- Needlenose Pliers
- Regular Pliers
- Hard-wire Cutters
- Wire Cutters
- Wire Stripper
- 420HC Knife
- 420 HC Serrated Knife
- Saw
- Spring-action Scissors
- Ruler (8 in | 19 cm)
- Can Opener
- Bottle Opener
- Wood/Metal File
- Diamond-coated File
- Large Bit Driver
- Small Bit Driver
- Medium Screwdriver
Leatherman Wave Tools
It comes in two models, stainless steel and black oxide coated for added corrosion resistance. The Leatherman Wave is an extremely versatile tool designed for one handed operation. It weighs 8.5 ounces and also comes equipped with a sheath that can be attached to a belt.
Gerber Diesel Multitool
Gerber continues to impress with quality products that look the part and the Gerber Diesel Multitool is no exception. With a name like Diesel, we expect toughness and rugged looks, and the Diesel does not disappoint.
Gerber Diesel Multitool
Click to check the price at Amazon.
It’s offered in both stainless steel and Diesel black. The non-reflective black version is a step up from the classic stainless steel look that has dominated the multitool market for so long. It really is an intimidating looking multitool.
The Gerber Diesel Multitool features the following 12 Tools:
- Needlenose pliers
- Wire cutter
- Partially-serrated knife blade
- Cross point screwdriver
- Small, medium, and large flat blade screwdrivers
- Can opener
- Bottle opener
- File
- Multi tool Saw
- Scissors
Gerber Diesel Tools
It weighs in at 8.5 ounces, which is exactly the same as the Leatherman Wave. For its affordability, great looks, and functionality, the Gerber Diesel Multitool is one of the most popular multitools on the market today.
Leatherman Wave vs Gerber Diesel – Which is Better?
Both of these multitools are constructed with high quality materials and the ergonomics of the user in mind. They are very similar which makes it hard to pick a winner between the two. When comparing the Wave vs Diesel, we must look at the differences.
Leatherman Wave vs Gerber Diesel Comparison List
| Leatherman Wave | Gerber Diesel | Winner | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Tools | 17 | 12 | Wave |
| Assisted Opening? | No | No | Draw |
| Warranty | 25-year Limited | Lifetime Limited | Draw |
| Weight (ounces) | 8.5 | 8.5 | Draw |
| Sheath | Yes | Yes | Draw |
| Made in the USA? | Assembled | Assembled | Draw |
| Overall Price | $$ | $ | Diesel |
| Cost Per Tool | $5.50 | $5.50 | Draw |
| Overall Winner | Draw |
As you can see, the key differences between the Leatherman Wave vs Gerber Diesel are few, but important to note. The Wave has 5 more tools, which is a considerable difference in the amount of tasks you can complete.
Neither utilizes assisted opening, yet they can both be used for one handed tasks. Both are constructed of corrosion resistant material, and are exactly the same in weight at 8.5 ounces.
The Leatherman Wave has more tools, but is a little bit more expensive than the Gerber Diesel. When cost per tool is factored in, they are exactly the same.
Bottom Line
In this multitool comparison, we’ve pitted the Leatherman Wave vs Gerber Diesel in an all-out battle. Both are extremely popular and durable multitools that would serve you well. While they have many of the same features, it’s hard to overlook that the Wave has 5 more tool options.
While the Diesel is still a capable multitool, if you’re looking for a do-it-all multitool; the Wave is the better option. The Diesel does have a nice added safety feature called the Saf.T.Plus system which helps lock tools in place so they can’t accidentally shut.
When factors such as warranty, extra options, and other features are factored in, both tools are almost exactly the same. Price is a different matter, with the Diesel being cheaper than the Wave considerably. This makes sense due to the tool discrepancy, but even when you factor in the cost per tool, they are identical.
Having said all that, the slight edge goes to the Leatherman Wave for being capable of operating like a pocket knife and providing more tools to accomplish the job. However, both multitools serve their price points well.
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