Leatherman Wave vs. TI vs. XTI vs. other options

I have a Wave, Charge Ti, and SwissSpirit. One hand opening is a huge plus but the leatherman are a little bulkier, if that matters. At first I loved having the micro screwdriver and replaceable bits... but then I found myself away from the spare bits and it was aggravating. I currently EDC the SwissSpirit and have been very happy with it. I carried the leathermen for many years and although the wave got a little loose over time, it always came through for me. I'd recommend any of them, really, all quality products, it comes down to carrying the thing and what specific tools you really want/need... and if you insist on easy one handed opening.
 
I was a Gerber Multi tool user for many years and always carried a Spyderco Calypso Jr. lightweight or something like that for utility use. I found myself leaving the Gerber at home a lot and trying to fix things with the little Micra on my key chain. I bought a Charge XTi on the spur of the moment and I`ve been carrying it daily since. The pocket clip and one hand opening are great! Now I find myself leaving the Spydercos and Benchmades at home. I can`t say I`ve ever used an awl on any of my knives but I do miss scissors a little bit. I just use the Micra when I need those. The wire stripper and crimper see frequent use though as do the pliers,screwdrivers,file and of course the knife blade. I use that stuff pretty hard everyday and I haven`t broken anything yet. The only complaint I have is that it could be a little bit slimmer but then it probably wouldn`t have as many tools. Marcus
 
I picked up a Charge Ti a few months ago from Wall Mart they had the best price about $77. Overall it's built pretty good.

Things I Like about it.

Titanium Handles
154 CM main blade.
Scissors, Their strong well built and compair well to SAK's. SAK's have the scissors.
Diamond file, is a great idea
Serrated blade, see below
Saw, works well
Pliers, have not broke or sprung them yet seem to be well designed.
Screw driver (fixed), works well
Can opener/Cap lifter, works well however cap lifter works better if used with handles left apart.
Replacable screwdriver. Great idea what can I say.
Eye glass screw driver thing, (removable) see below
Pocket clip awsome works well and it's removable what A concept!!!!


What I don't like:

Sheath, what's with the spandex stuff anyway this definatly needs more thought put into it. They claim it can be worn horizontally well, not easily on a 1 1/4" belt. It's nice to wear in the horizontall position but the belt loop is poorly designed. Again this goes back to the overall sheath design which is poor.

Eyeglass screw driver thingy. Not sure what the thought process was here but this could be lost and replaced with a nice awl/punch.

Serrated blade is ok but I think it could use a steel upgrade.

Overall it's a good design but could still use a little refinement.


Bors
 
I've had my Charge XTi for about 6 months now and have worn it about every day. I use it at work, hunting, fishing, camping. I wore it 24 hrs straight on an overnighter, no tent just sleeping on the ground by the fire. The sheath looks brand new, would never know it was used - I love it. Was really wanting the leather but now I'm hooked on the nylon.

On the negative side, a 'hinge piece' keeps popping out by the scissors (on 2 that I've handled) - I just push it back in. Also, 1 month after I got it I used the large screw to pry something and to my surprise it broke in 2, easily, like plastic. :eek: Gander Mountain exchanged it promptly. Plus, it rusts and I baby it.

I do very much like this Charge, but wonder about it's durability. I would not buy one again, will go back to SAK.

$100 is just too much to doubt about durability.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top