Leatherman Wave (2004)

In 2004, Leatherman unveiled an update to their most popular and biggest selling multitool, the Wave. Although the overall look and concepts of the original Wave were retained, several enhancements and improvements were made to keep the Wave at the forefront of multitool design.
Also released as a premium version in the form of the Charge Ti, the “new” Wave featured improved ergonomics, stronger pliers and frame, together with the introduction of locks for all tools contained in the handles.

The first thing that is noticeable about the new Wave, is that it is approximately 1/4″ wider overall in the closed position due to the deeper clip-point and serrated blades. In addition to making the blades stronger, one-handed opening is aided by the extra width in the thumb-holes provided.The plier heads are the same as fitted on the Fuse and Blast tools, advertised as stronger and clearly wider with a larger pivot. The thickening of the steel used and extra width in the handle depth provide extra strength and negate the “flexing” often experienced with the old Wave.The fasteneing bolts at the plier ends of the handles incorporate bronze washers to make opening the pliers, and each of the externally accessible blades (Clip point knife, serrated knife, diamond file and saw) very smooth and easy. Inside the handles can be found scissors, small (eye-glass) bit driver, a fixed flat-head screwdriver and a large bit driver that accepts Leatherman’s proprietary flat bits.

It’s easy to see why the 2004 Wave remains one of the most popular multitools available, and Leatherman’s biggest seller. The tool packs most of the commonly used features into package barely bigger than the original PST, and features a detachable, quick-release lanyard ring and pocket clip to provide an alternative to sheath carry.

Pictured below are 4 variations of the Wave that I currently have within my collection, from left to right are the Standard Wave, Danish 2H Wave, Black Oxide version and a 2008 25th Anniversary limited edition version.In addition to a representation of Tim Leatherman’s signature engraved on the handles, the 25th Anniversary Wave has a highly polished finish!