The Best Leatherman Multi-Tools Review Guide
On the job, outdoors, or around the house – the Leatherman Wave is one of the best-selling multi-tool models on the market today. If you’ve never owned a multi-tool, then you’ve come to the right place. One of the main problems with multi-tools is quality. Many cheaper units now come from China, and they fall apart at the most inopportune times. You won’t be disappointed when you buy a Leatherman. The Leatherman is made of the highest quality materials around plus, all Leatherman products are made in America.
The founders, Tim and Steve Leatherman started the company back in 1983. Their business concept was simple: produce high-quality products, deliver value to customers, and provide good-paying jobs to the local workers. They accomplished all that and more. Their first multi-tool was called the “pocket survival tool” (PST). It came complete with a dozen essential tools. As the demand for more tools grew, the company listened and thus was born the Leatherman Wave. The original PST was retired in 2004.
Leatherman Multi-Tool Comparison Guide
Our comparison guide will help you compare features and prices for the top 50 Leatherman Multi-Tools. Some of the features may seem a bit redundant at first glance, but as you look through the guide, you will begin to recognize some of the variations in tools and options.
As you go through the guide, remember that these multi-tools can be used in almost any application, so think of ways one could benefit you. For your average household fixes, instead of buying a kit for bits, wrenches, and pliers, you can buy one multi-tool and save money and space.
Our Best Bets
All Leatherman multi-tools are manufactured with quality materials and quality craftsmanship. You will get the same superior service and warranties on any and all products you purchase, but we have our favorites.
We’ve chosen five “best bets” for you to look at. The value is in the versatility, design, and price. One unit called the Muthas a more specific use in mind, but Leatherman still kept some of the basic functions on board, so we considered it one of our “best bet” selections.
Leatherman 830040 New Wave Multi-Tool with Nylon Sheath
Leatherman 830040Your looking at one of the more popular full-size Leatherman multi-tools in their collection. Stronger and better than ever, the new Wave is ready for any job or outdoor activity you can throw at it.
The Leatherman 830040 comes with extended wire cutters, stronger pliers, and oversized knives. Leatherman has doubled the squeezing load of the pliers and incorporated locking blades. You’ll never have to fumble around with clumsy design flaws, the 830040 now has “one-handed, smooth action access.” This means you can get the tool you need almost instantaneously – it’s that easy. Add to this a function that allows you to use one blade at a time, and you’ve got one cool multi-tool.
Tools included are: needlenose pliers; regular pliers; wire cutters; hard-wire cutters; clip-point knife; serrated knife; saw; scissors; wood/metal file; diamond-coated file; large bit driver; small bit driver; large screwdriver; ruler (8 inches); bottle/can opener; wire stripper; lanyard attachment; two double-ended bits.
Specs:
- Length: 4 in.closed — 6.3 in open
- Weight: 8.5 ounces
- Materials: 100% stainless steel (Optimum grade hardness for each tool/blade)
- Included Screw Bits: Phillips and flat tip eyeglass screwdriver
- Phillips #1-2 and screwdriver 3/16″
The Leatherman 830040 is priced at under $60.00 (including nylon sheath).
Leatherman 830039 New Wave Multi-Tool with Leather/Nylon Combination Sheath
Leatherman 830039 One of the things that makes Leatherman products so popular with multi-tool enthusiasts is their durability and quality. Leatherman 830039 is another example of why they are the leaders in their field. The 830039 model has all the same features as model 830040, but comes with a leather/nylon sheath.
Let's talk for a minute about the blades. There are four exterior blades that can be accessed when the tool is closed. All you need to do is place your thumb in the hole located at the base of the blade. By rotating the knife, you will extend the blade until you hear it lock in place. The knife blade has its own unique feature. You can only use it when the tool is closed.
Tools included are: needlenose pliers; regular pliers; wire cutters; hard-wire cutters; 420HC knife; 420HC serrated knife; saw; scissors; wood/metal file; diamond-coated file; large bit driver; small bit driver; medium screwdriver; ruler (8 inches); bottle/can opener; wire stripper; wire stripper.
Optional tools: 21 double-end bits; pocket clip.
Specs:
- Length: 4 in.closed — 6.3 in open
- Weight: 8.5 ounces
- Materials: 100% stainless steel (Optimum grade hardness for each tool/blade)
The Leatherman 830039 is priced at just under $60.00 (including leather/nylon sheath).
Leatherman 830489 Wave Black Oxide With Black Molle Sheath With Cap Crimper
Leatherman Wave BlackWhat’s not to like about the Leatherman Wave Black Oxide. When you see it, it looks like a stealth bomber. The 830489 is another popular multi-tool that incorporates the “17 tools in one” concept found in the Wave product line. The one thing that makes this model just a bit different is that it comes with a cap crimper.
Many existing customers have high phrases when it comes to being able to use the blades without having to open the tool. Leatherman had made many of these improvements, starting in 2004, when customers requested easier access to the more commonly used tools. If you plan on using the bit feature of this tool more often than not, then consider purchasing the optional bit extension and 40-bit accessory kit – this expands your capabilities tremendously.
Tools include are: 420HC clip point knife; 420HC sheepsfoot serrated knife; 8 in ruler; bottle opener; can opener; diamond-coated file; hard-wire cutters; Phillips and flat tip eyeglasses screwdriver bit, Phillips #1-2 and 3/16″ Bit; large bit driver; large screwdriver; needlenose pliers; regular pliers; saw; scissors; small bit driver; wire cutters; wire stripper; wood/metal file.
Specs:
- 2.9 in. (blade length)
- 4 in. (closed)
- 8.5 oz (weight)
The Leatherman 830489 is priced at around $75.99 (including molle sheath).
What Do You Think?
If you’re a fishing enthusiast, an avid camper, or just a great outdoorsman, there’s a Leatherman Wave multi-tool that will fit your needs. The fact is you don’t need a reason to own a Leatherman, it’s just handy to have one around for everyday use.
We failed to mention that all the products we reviewed come with a 25-year warranty. There are certain conditions such as abuse, theft, and sharpening that are not covered, but existing customers state they have received superior customer service and no-hassle replacement/repair service when needed.
There’s not a better-made multi-tool in North America. Leatherman has been making high-quality multi-tools for more than 30 years, backed by unparalleled service and warranty commitments. The Wave is highly recommended by magazines such as Blade, British Columbia Magazine, Camping Life, Escapees, Esquire, Field and Stream, GQ Maximum PC, Men’s Health, Men’s Journal, Power and Motoryacht, ReadyMade, SledHeads, SnoWest, Sports Illustrated, Tactical Knives, and Western Outdoors.
