In this review, we’re pitting the SOG Powerassist vs Leatherman Wave 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.
Last update on 2021-01-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
SOG PowerAssist Multitool
SOG is well known in the multitool industry and their new SOG PowerAssist is an innovative way to reduce the need for two hands by incorporating multiple assisted opening tool options.
SOG PowerAssist Multitool
Click to check the price at Amazon.
The SOG PowerAssist features both a serrated and straight edge blade that function with the one handed assisted opening mechanism. One handed opening is essential for increased functionality. SOG Assisted Technology helps complete the opening of the blade for smooth transitions.
Our cost per tool analysis indicates the SOG PowerAssist has a cost ratio of $3.98 for every tool it’s equipped with. This makes it one of most cost efficient multitools we’ve seen.
The SOG PowerAssist comes with the following 16 tools:
- Pliers/gripper
- Hard wire cutter
- Crimper
- Straight-edge blade
- Serrated blade
- Three-sided file
- Large screwdriver
- Phillips screwdriver
- Can opener/small screwdriver
- Bottle opener/medium screwdriver
- Rulers
- V-Cutter
- Lanyard ring
- Nylon carrying pouch
SOG PowerAssist Tools
It’s constructed of stainless steel and comes in both a satin finish and black oxide coating. Each is extremely resistant to corrosion as well as wear and tear. The SOG PowerAssist is a sturdy 9.6 ounces and stores compact in a handy carrying sheath.
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. The Leatherman Wave weighs 8.5 ounces and comes with a sheath for compact carrying.
SOG Powerassist vs Leatherman Wave – 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 distinguish one from the other. When comparing the SOG Powerassist vs Leatherman Wave, we must look at the differences.
SOG Powerassist vs Leatherman Wave Comparison List
| Leatherman Wave | SOG PowerAssist | Winner | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Tools | 17 | 16 | Wave |
| Assisted Opening? | No | Yes | SOG |
| Warranty | 25-year Limited | Lifetime Limited | Draw |
| Weight (ounces) | 8.5 | 9.6 | Wave |
| Sheath | Yes | Yes | Draw |
| Made in the USA? | Assembled | Assembled | Draw |
| Overall Price | $$ | $ | SOG |
| Cost Per Tool | $5.55 | $3.98 | SOG |
| Overall Winner | SOG |
As you can see, the key differences between the SOG PowerAssist vs Leatherman Wave are few, but important to note. The Leatherman Wave has more tools, with the main difference being the Saw attachment.
The SOG Powerassist is assisted opening, whereas the Wave is not. They can both be used for one handed tasks, but the SOG PowerAssist Multitool will perform slightly better.
Even though the Leatherman Wave has a 25-year limited warranty, both warranties are plenty long enough to meet most peoples needs. All in all, the SOG Power Assist slightly edges out the Leatherman Wave as the best multitool bwteen the two.
Bottom Line
In this multitool comparison, we’ve pitted the SOG PowerAssist vs Leatherman Wave. 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 Wave has more tools, in particular the saw and scissors, and is great for one handed use. The SOG PowerAssist is slightly better for one handed use, but lacks the same amount of tools. It does have a crimper that the Wave does not have.
When other factors such as warranty, extra options, and overall price are factored in, both tools are very similar. But when we look at cost per tool it’s easy to see that the SOG PowerAssist is $1.50 cheaper per tool. Because of this, the SOG Powerassist slightly edges out the Leatherman Wave when compared side by side.
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