In this review, we’re pitting the Leatherman Wave vs Swisstool 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
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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
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. The Leatherman Wave weighs 8.5 ounces and comes with a sheath for compact carrying.
Swisstool Multitool
The Victorinox Swiss Army SwissTool is made with precision quality that exceeds even some of the top Leatherman and Gerber Multitools we’ve handled. The tools lock into place smoothly and can easily be used one handed.
Victorinox Swiss Army SwissTool
Click to check the price on Amazon.
The polished finish on the Swisstool is brighter than any other stainless steel multitool available. In the looks department, it definitely gets your attention.
The Swiss Army SwissTool comes with the following 27 tools:
- Pliers
- Screwdriver (2mm)
- Screwdriver (3mm)
- Wire Cutter (for wire up to 40 hrc)
- Screwdriver (5mm)
- Bottle Opener
- Screwdriver (7.5mm)
- Large Blade
- Serrated Blade
- Metal File
- Metal Saw
- Wood Saw
- Reamer
- Phillips Screwdriver
- Chisel/Scraper
- Strong Crate Opener
- Wire Bender
- Wire Stripper
- Wire Scraper
- Wire Crimper
- Can opener
- Ruler (230mm)
- Ruler (9in)
- Hard Wire Cutter
- Lanyard Hole
- Easy Kickback Springs
- Lock Release
The Swisstool weighs in at 7.4 ounces which is considerably lighter than other multitools in its class. Very few multitools include scissors, a file, and a chisel like the Swisstool does.
Leatherman Wave vs Swisstool – 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 Leatherman Wave vs Swisstool, we must look at the differences.
Leatherman Wave vs Swisstool Comparison Table
| Leatherman Wave | Swisstool | Winner | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Tools | 17 | 27 | Swisstool |
| Assisted Opening? | No | No | Draw |
| Warranty | 25-year Limited | Lifetime Limited | Draw |
| Scissors? | Yes | Yes | Draw |
| Chisel? | No | Yes | Swisstool |
| Price | $$ | $$ | Draw |
| Overall Winner | Swisstool |
As you can see, the key differences between the Leatherman Wave vs Swisstool are few, but important to note. The Swisstool has more tools, with the main difference being the chisel.
Neither utilizes assisted opening, yet they can both be used for one handed tasks. The Swisstool is more aesthetic with its polished finished, although both are constructed out of corrosion resistant stainless steel.
The tools on the Swisstool can be difficult to open if your fingernails are clipped close, but it’s our only gripe. When all of these factors are combined, the winner between the two is the Swisstool.
Bottom Line
In this multitool comparison, we’ve pitted the Leatherman Wave vs Swisstool. Both are extremely popular and durable multitools that would serve you well. They are so evenly matched it almost comes down to brand loyalty and personal aesthetics to choose a winner.
But as we’ve seen, there are some key differences. The Swisstool has more tools, in particular the scissors, file, and chisel. Both are capable of one handed use, but lack assisted opening. The slight edge goes to the Leatherman Wave for improved ergonomics of tools and ease of use for longer periods.
When other factors such as warranty, extra options, and price are factored in, both tools are almost exactly the same. Because of this, the Swisstool slightly edges out the Leatherman Wave when compared side by side.
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