Leatherman Wave vs. Charge
Chances are if you are considering a multi-tool it could very well be a Leatherman. Leatherman is a name synonymous with the best multi-tools on the market. Of the Leatherman line of product, the Wave and Charge are two of the most popular. Because they are similar in terms of functionality many are often looking for a comparison of the Leatherman Wave vs Charge. There are two versions of the Charge, so be sure to review each carefully. Take a look below at our head to head comparison.
| Wave | Charge TTi | Charge ALX |
|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
| Top Rated | Most Desired | Most Aggressive |
| Cost: $$ | Cost: $$$$ | Cost: $$$ |
| Warranty: 25 years | Warranty: 25 years | Warranty: 25 years |
| Number of Tools: 17 | Number of Tools: 19 | Number of Tools: 18 |
| Rating: 4.7 | Rating: 4.7 | Rating: 4.0 |
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To make sure you make the right choice when purchasing a multi-tool, it is important to first understand what exactly a multi-tool is. A multi-tool is a product that possesses many different instruments, such as a bottle opener, a knife, file, or pliers, to be utilized for personal or professional use. Typically, a multi-tool is compact, small, and can fit into your pocket, purse, or on your waistband with a sheath. Multi-tools can sometimes be considered a one-handed tool, which is extremely important if you need a tool where every second counts.
Over the years, multi-tools have become sturdier, making their performance more accurate and precise. Multi-tools are the necessary accessory for a number of professional and recreational uses, such as:
- Hunting Trips
- Camping Trips
- Fishing Trips
- First Responders
- Firemen
- Policemen
- Military
- Construction Workers
- Mechanics
- DIY Projects
Leatherman Wave Vs Charge
Leatherman Wave w/ Leather/Nylon Combo Sheath
One of the most popular multi-tools from Leatherman, the Wave, is considered a full-sized multi-tool featuring 17 tools in one small and compact package. It is constructed of 100% stainless steel, and you can operate it with one hand. The Leatherman 830039 New Wave has:
- Two Pliers
- Wire Cutters
- Two Knives
- Saw
- Scissors
- Two Files
- Two Drivers
- Bottle Opener
- Two Double-Ended Bits
- Ruler
- Wire Stripper
One feature that users will appreciate is that you can lift a single tool from the base of the multi-tool without opening another. Furthermore, there are four exterior blades that can be utilized even with the Leatherman Wave is closed. Conveniently, all you have to do is press on the thumbhole at the base of the multi-tool, rotating until the blade is fully extended.
One safety feature that will make you feel more comfortable is that when you open a tool with the Leatherman Wave, it locks into place. For easy carrying, there is a lanyard ring and a leather/nylon sheath that protect the unit, as well as you, when it is worn on your waistband or placed in your pocket or purse. Our Full Leatherman Wave Review⇒
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Leatherman Charge TTi with Leather Sheath and Bit Kit
This Leatherman multi-tool is made of strong and durable 420HC stainless steel, and like the Leatherman Wave, it comes with a number of tools, including:
- Needlenose Pliers
- Regular Pliers
- Wire Cutters
- Hard-Wire Cutters
- Diamond-Coated File
- Crimper
- Saw
- Scissors
- Cutting Hook
- Knives
- Bit Drivers
- Screwdriver
There are a few differences between the Leatherman Charge TTi and the Leatherman Wave. If you want to spend a few less dollars, then you might want to consider the Leatherman New Wave instead of the Leatherman Charge TTi. Additionally, the Leatherman Charge TTi is titanium, has a ripper, and a S30V blade, which the Leatherman Wave does not.
Like the Leatherman Wave, the Leatherman Charge TTi comes with a nylon/leather combination sheath for protection when not in use. The sheath contains a front pocket for bit accessories. Our Full Leatherman Charge TTi Review⇒
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Leatherman Charge ALX with Leather Sheath
Similar to the other two Leatherman multi-tools, the Leatherman Charge ALX can be operated with one hand The Leatherman Charge ALX is an upgrade from the Leatherman Charge TTi, possessing handles constructed with 6061 T6 aluminum, the same material that is used in the aerospace industry for aircraft construction. Moreover, this multi-tool has the same tools as the other two Leatherman multi-tools, however, they are designed to withstand more pressure and made to be tougher.
For example, the pliers were already among the strongest you will find on the market. Now, with the Leatherman Charge ALX, the pliers are redesigned to endure 133% more squeezing force. Another feature on the Charge ALX that has been improved from the Leatherman Charge TTi and the Leatherman Wave is that there is more security, thanks to the new all-locking blades. Not only are they easy to use, but they are 50% more secure, so you don’t have to worry about the Charge ALX becoming unhinged.
Bronze bushings on this multi-tool make the blades smooth and quick to open. Also, the interior blades can be opened easily one-at-a-time by just rotating each one individually. Like the TTi version, the ALX has a crimper and a cutting hook, which the Leatherman Wave does not. Although the ALX has two large drill bit drivers, and the TTi does not.
If weight and cost is a factor, it is important to note that the Leatherman Charge TTi is made with titanium and the Leatherman ALX is made of aluminum. Titanium is lighter than aluminum, but it cost more. Therefore, it depends on what you are willing to pay for when it comes to choosing between these three Leatherman multi-tools. Our Full Leatherman Charge ALX Review⇒
