I am very close to buying a Black Oxide Leatherman Surge, but the only thing that worries me is the weight. The Leatherman website lists it as 12.5 ounces which is really heavy. Should I just go with the Wave? It's basically the same thing just smaller, but when I held them both in my hand today I like several things better about the Surge, those things being: the size felt better in hand, the scissors were amazing, I love the interchangeable saw/file, and it seems like it was just a tool that could get any job done.... The wave has everything it has (mostly), yet in a smaller, LIGHTER package. I've never carried either so I'd like some thoughts from people who have so post 'em here please.
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Should I Get the Surge or Wave???
- Thread starter Nick15
- Start date
I have the black Wave, carry it on my flack jacket when I'm in the field. Thats something to consider I guess, the black one comes with the molle backed pouch. Anyway I feel like the Wave is a little on the heavy side since my only other leatherman is a skeletool. I wouldnt carry one bigger than the wave personally.
Thanks for the reply! That says it all right there.
That's what I figured, thanks.
glockman99
RIP Dann, you were a good guy.
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- Jun 12, 2000
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I received a LM Surge a couple days ago and I was pretty suprised at just HOW big & heavy it is. The Wave is small and lightweight by comparison. Also, I have the leather belt-sheath with my Surge, and on the belt, it sticks out pretty far, as it is pretty thick with the Surge stuffed in it. If you don't think you'd mind the size and weight, the Surge has alittle bit "more" to offer than the Wave does, and as mentioned, the scissors in the Surge are amazing...They are large and work very well.
I have both the Wave and Surge. Got the Wave as a gift 8 years ago and I wear it almost daily, dont really know its there anymore. Has all the tools I need and easy to use. I got the Surge because it was on clearance at Wally World $48. Thought it would be a better version of the Wave that I love so much. The weight is a big issue, and it does stick out a bit when worn on my belt. I have regulated it to living in my car or a B.O.B. Great tool, just not for EDC. My 2 cents.
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- Jan 24, 2005
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This seems to be a typical response, and it goes for me, as well. At first I thought the difference in size and weight wouldn't amount to much. Both seemed tolerable to carry, but after several months of alternating them, my body decided otherwise. Without really thinking about it, I eventually found myself strapping on the Charge (fancy Wave) daily while reserving the Surge for "special occasions." Even though I really like and respect its capabilities, my theory is that the Surge is just over the threshold of totable mass for all but the gorillas among us, while the Wave/Charge is just under.
Esav Benyamin
MidniteSuperMod
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The Surge is sooo big ... you could use it for a boat anchor. Too heavy for personal carry.
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The Powerassist weighs 9.3 oz, the Surge 12.5 oz. and is larger. When I got mine it was after 9 years of Super Tool EDC, also 9 oz. I never thought an additional 3 oz would make much of a difference, but it did, both in carrying and use. Whether you would notice, I couldn't say.
Were the Surge my only multitool, I could cope, but based on my experience with it I have a hunch that at some point might possibly start coming up with excuses to leave it home. It is a clever design and very capable, but I think large enough to consider packing several dedicated tools and blades instead.
Well, I've just gotten back from Wal-Mart after holding both the Surge and Wave. Even after all the recommendations towards the Wave I just can't warm up to it... The Surge just feels superior in almost every way; especially when opening the tool, plus, the Wave seems alittle on the small side. The Surge feels much smoother and nicer, but now I have another decision to make.... I do like my SOG Powerassist except for the fact that it's lacking in tools so I've been looking at the Powerlock as well. Which is better then?? The SURGE OR POWERLOCK?????? Both are similar in size but the SOG is lighter. For the same price give or take I could have either. Any thoughts about those two?
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I had the Surge, and at 12 oz it's a brick. No way you carry it in pocket, and even in a belt sheath it's noticeable. If I have to decide between Surge and Powerlock, I'd go with the powerlock because its compound pliers give you superior grip, and because you can customize the tool set.
Exactly my thoughts! I love my Powerassist's compound leverage with the pliers and I was gonna change out a few tools on there but I just don't have enough room for the tools already on there that I need and ones I want. Looks like I'll look into a Black Oxide Powerlock.... too bad I saw exactly what I was looking for on E-bay for $35 shipped
I don't think it'll be too hard to find another one similar to that though.
glockman99
RIP Dann, you were a good guy.
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- Jun 12, 2000
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- 21,269
Well, I have decided to keep (and carry) my LM Surge after-all. I bought a LM nylon Surge sheath, (from eBay), and I have a feeling that my Surge will carry alittle bit "better" in the LM nylon sheath than it does in the LM leather sheath.