Some gear gets reviewed after a weekend. This isn't that. The Wave has lived on our team's belts through hunting camps, fishing trips, biltong-hanging sessions and more farm repairs than we can count. Here's the honest long-term verdict on the Wave+.
What you get
Eighteen tools in a 241 g stainless package: needlenose and regular pliers, replaceable wire cutters (the "+" upgrade over the old Wave), a plain blade and a serrated blade, saw, spring-action scissors, wood/metal file, diamond-coated file, multiple screwdrivers, bottle and can openers, wire stripper and a ruler. The two knife blades and the saw open one-handed from the outside — no unfolding the pliers first — and everything locks solidly.
Where it shines in the field
- At the hunting camp: the saw handles skinning-rack repairs and braai wood; the pliers pull fencing wire, hot potjie lids and stubborn splinters with equal ease.
- On the water: scissors cut braid cleanly, the pliers crush barbs and remove hooks, and the file touches up a dinged hook point.
- On the bakkie: loose battery terminals, hose clamps, trailer plugs — the screwdriver set and pliers have rescued more than one trip home.
What we don't love
Honesty time: at 241 g it's noticeable on a belt all day. The blades are excellent working blades but won't replace a proper hunting knife for skinning an animal — nor should they. And it's not cheap. But this is a buy-once tool: Leatherman backs it with a 25-year warranty, and the build quality means you'll likely never use it.
The verdict
Yes — still the benchmark. Cheaper multi-tools do exist (we stock those too, and for occasional use they're fine), but the Wave+ remains the one we reach for when it's our money and our hunting trip. If you carry one tool every day, this is the one that earns its place.
Rating: 9/10 — loses a point only for weight and the price of admission.
Handle one at the counter
We stock Leatherman and a full range of multi-tools and hunting knives — come compare them in hand.
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