Leatherman Upgrades Its Most Popular Multi-Tool Ever: Wave Alpha Review

Over the summer, Leatherman became the subject of unnecessary scrutiny when it launched a line of (now successful) knives under the “Built Different” campaign. The lineup focused on “top-shelf” materials and construction — some followers pushed back, saying higher-end tools weren’t what the brand’s followers wanted.

My take was that people were complaining just to complain. Constructive criticism is one thing, but this wasn’t that. I’ve relied on the Leatherman for coming on 30 years, and there’s no denying that the new Built Different tools provided enhanced capabilities for an elevated experience.

And today, Leatherman brings those upgrades to its most successful and longest-running multitool ever, in the form of the Wave Alpha. And contrary to the complaints I saw on the internet, this tool proves that Leatherman is listening, and it didn’t veer too far from the original Wave to improve it.

In Short: With upgrades like MagnaCut steel and G10 handle scales, and the addition of a full-sized scissors, Leatherman takes the iconic Wave multitool to new bounds with the Wave Alpha. Perhaps the brand’s most versatile multitool, the Wave Alpha improves on what customers can do with their the Wave.

Check out the GearJunkie guide to Best Multi-Tools.

Leatherman Wave Alpha Review

There are core memories in my life from 16 to 44 where a Leatherman tool is prominently featured. Most of them have been with the Wave (with honorable mention to the Juice PS4). I’ve had my old Wave shipped overseas to my Copenhagen hotel, because I couldn’t fathom driving to Sweden without it. I paid a security officer $20 to hold onto that same tool when I wasn’t permitted to carry it at the Hoover Dam.

And, just yesterday, I used the new Wave Alpha to unscrew a CB antenna from my old 4Runner before I sold the SUV, which I’d had for 10 years. Suffice to say, this tool in particular holds a lot of value for me, and I am especially keen how Leatherman could improve it.

Design and Features

In creating the Wave Alpha, Leatherman stayed true to the original Wave foundation, but improved upon overall function, access to tools, and materials and material treatment.

Like the current Wave, the Wave Alpha has 16 onboard tools. The difference now is the elimination of a serrated blade in favor of a full-sized pair of scissors. In the old spot, where the smaller scissors lived on the original tool, Leatherman added an awl.

In my opinion, this is one of the best tool assortments you could ask for in an everyday, hardworking, multitool. The addition of a thumb stud on the reverse Tanto knife blade is chef’s kiss.

In terms of materials and material treatment, the Wave Alpha is all about upgrades. The most notable material upgrade is the move from 420HC steel to MagnaCut steel. MagnaCut is a more balanced steel that has risen to the top of the pile in the last couple of years. It holds a great edge, which is easy to maintain, and it’s resistant to corrosion and abrasion.

But that’s not all! All of the other steel bits on the Wave Alpha are stainless and either Cerakoted or Black Oxide coated. These treatments will prolong the life of the tool and let you use and abuse it in any environment.

The G10 handle scales add visual appeal, but also improves grip. Leatherman refers to this as “topo-textured,” which makes sense when you see it. Tapering creates a swell in the palm and a valley where your thumb lands to access the larger, outside tools. This improves ease of access while minimizing fatigue when using the tool under strenuous conditions.

What Does ‘Alpha’ Mean?

The addition of “Alpha” to the Wave name seems to have a bigger meaning. First off, there’s a logo change: an “a” stamped on the product box, the tool, and the blade. Additionally, Leatherman’s trademark black and yellow packaging is replaced with a Wave Alpha box that resembles carbon fiber, with that “a” festooned in cranberry coloring.

I can only speculate for now, but could this all signal the launch of a new line? Will Leatherman launch a Skeletool Alpha or Rebar Alpha down the line? I don’t know for certain, but it seems like a lot of effort for just one tool.

In The Field

Switching from using the Arc to the Wave Alpha was a challenge. The two tools are very different, even though they aim for the same goals. For one, the Arc uses Leatherman’s Free platform, which allows it to swing open and be used with one hand.

The trade-off is that the Wave is smaller, tapered, and has improved touch points that are easier on your hands. Both tools carry a similar tool assortment.

In my mind, these differences position the Wave to be the better choice for more people. Like MagnaCut steel, it finds itself in the middle — very balanced and capable for a majority of common tasks.

Leatherman has used G10 scales on its tools in the past, but the way they taper on the Wave Alpha will likely appeal to people of varying different hand shapes and sizes. In fact, the Wave Alpha could be a great multitool for youngsters based on its shape and size (with adult supervision of course).

The Wave Alpha conjured a lot of memories from the original. The way it fits in your hand is rounded and welcoming. But, the Wave Alpha tapers left to right and front to back. This improves upon the original and, therefore, the overall user experience. It tucks into your hand and creates a tolerable experience, even when you’re really getting after a stubborn screw.

As for the steel, I learned not to rely on a 420HC blade — common to Leatherman tools. It starts off with a factory fantastic edge, but soon becomes a burden that demands regular maintenance. Additionally, I never used the original’s serrated blade. To see it swapped out for a full-sized set of scissors, and a significant blade steel upgrade indicates a superior tool, period.

Drawbacks: Complainers will Complain

The Wave Alpha doesn’t come with a pouch or a pocket clip. This leaves the tool to sit at the bottom of your pocket. I am sure people will bemoan the $80 increase over the original Wave. Knowing they need to purchase a pouch might send some of these folks overboard.

However, that brings up a big point that some people might miss: When you buy a Leatherman tool, you buy one for life. We need to escape this consumer mindset that we need to keep buying bigger and better. Invest in a single tool you can rely on for at least a decade or two.

Conclusion: Who’s It For?

The Wave Alpha signifies that Leatherman is listening to its core customer base and created a tool for those people. Out of all of its multitools, the Wave has been and, with the Alpha, will continue to be the tool for everyone and anyone.

It has a well-rounded tool assortment and is sized just right for everyday use, outdoor use, or stuffed in a pack until you need it.

Earlier this year, Leatherman announced major expansions in its capabilities at its headquarters. The brand’s Portland, Oregon, campus saw an increase in its footprint and its staff. This allowed Leatherman to create more things with more (and better) materials and finishes.

The Wave Alpha could be a clear indication of what folks should expect from the brand heading into the future. Yes, prices are increasing on its products. That will always be a pain point for any brand, let alone one with roots in the U.S. manufacturing. But that increase portends better materials, better designs, and an overall better experience.

Leatherman has long set the tone for its competitors. It’ll be interesting to see how those competitors respond, because with a tool like the Wave Alpha, it’s not a matter of besting it, but simply keeping up.