Differences With the Wave?

J

JNieporte

Joined
Nov 1, 2004
Messages
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Tool-wise, what are the differences between the old Leatherman Waves (the ones sold around 1998-2002) and the "New Wave"? I know the new ones have the black micro screwdriver and the older ones don't, but is there any other difference?
 
Let me think.......

Bit drivers (big and small)
Larger knife blades
Locking tools
Pin in handle to aid in the pliers being closed correctly
The option to use a pocket clip or removable lanyard ring
Smaller scissors (I know...sucks)

David
 
you missed one(to some, a big one): the screws on the newext ones are six-sided instead of the five-sided ones on original Wave and the earlier models of the Wave II, which means you can dissassemble the tool with commercially available bits. This is apparently a VERY recent change. I got my Wave withing the last year and it has the six-sided screws, while others say their Wave IIs are still have the five-sided screws.
 
The original wave tool had a small screwdriver blade that I could use open locked privacy doors, make adjustments to appliances and reach small recessed screws. The new wave does not have it or a tool that matches close enough. Today I could have really used that screwdriver blade as I was trying to reach a recessed adjustment screw on our watercooler. I could not get to it with the new wave I am packing.
 
The older version is much nicer, IMO. I have an old one that I like very much, and would like to replace. But I've checked out the "new" version, and it's not the same thing.
Who cares about locking tools? Who cares about bit-drivers (that don't even take standard bits, IIRC)? Fit and finish was nicer on the old ones, too. They should have left it alone. The original Wave was one of the best, if not the best multi-tool ever.
 
I also prefer the old Wave. I like the compact size, and the long shank screwdrivers instead of the stubby bit holder. Mine rides in the courier bag I use as a briefcase for work.
 
Old Wave gets my vote. What the hell happened to the New Wave scissors? They are so small and dinky now. At least I can use them on my nose hairs. If I'm not mistaken, the Old Wave was slimmer. Maybe someone who has both can post a pic side by side?
 
My original Wave is with me everyday. I've looked at the newer Waves and don't feel the need to upgrade.

Paul
 
They shouldn't have played round with the old Wave. A true classic!

Chris
 
I think the new Wave's basic frame is amazing, but I am really not too keen on the scissors and bit holders. Everything else is fantastic though.
 
i send my old wave back for warranty after 5-6 years owning it. So the Malaysian Leatherman Master Distributor gave me a new wave instead. Besides all the differences mentioned, the new wave is bulkier, specially at the grips and they are thicker. However, the old leather sheath still can hold the new wave but its tight fit.
 
Here are some pics.

img2233600x450fu4.jpg


img2234600x450gd1.jpg


img2235600x450hx9.jpg


You can see the tool differences, the different Torx head screws, etc. In my opinion, the pocket clip, locking tools, and standard Torx pivots make the new Wave a little nicer. I do miss the long shank phillips, but that is about it. The new tiny scissors are very tough. I use them to cut zip ties. There seems to be a little more strength, and better locks, in the new Wave as well. Anyhow, have a nice day.
 
The new one has the scale/ruler as well. Yes, it matters. I used the old one for about 4 months, but it just stank. Now, it sits in a drawer. I tried selling it, but no one would buy it. I really think the new one is improved, and it appears that many agree. I rarely see the new Wave sell for less than $50, new or used('cept for mine on ebay), but haven't seen the old ones sell for over $25. That does not represent the entire market, but seems to show a considerable lack of demand for the older tool.
 
At first I was put off by the smaller scissors of the newer Wave/Charge, but after some use I find it actually cuts very well, in some instances better than the original, despite the size difference. So far, the only thing I have found problematic are the stubby drivers that once in a while are too short to reach countersunk screws. The bit extender helps some, but that means carrying an extra item, a (minor) PIA. On balance, I find the newer design a worthwhile upgrade, but would gladly trade that useless small bit holder for an awl.
 
is there a real difference in quality between the new wave and the old wave.. I've heard some folks,say the newer one's are not as well made. Any thoughts?
 
On a theoretical level, the older ones are made better. The earlier New Waves also seemed to be a hair nicer. It seemed to be minor things though, like the stampings were a bit sharper, etc. It really seemed to be things that would matter only to a collector. In use/design, the new model is probably a little better in the strength/lack of flex it has in the handles, and beefier blades.
 
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