I've carried both the Wave and the Surge on duty and off—no marketing fluff, just tools that earn their place on your belt. This roundup cuts to what matters: real-world carry, build quality, and which sheaths and bit kit actually make the Wave a practical EDC or the Surge a near-station toolbox. Expect blunt assessments of steel, locks, pocket presence, and legal carry pitfalls so you can decide fast.

Main Points

• Wave vs. Surge — size and purpose. The Wave is the everyday workhorse: lighter, slimmer, and genuinely pocketable. The Surge is bigger, heavier, and built for heavy cutting and leverage. If you need brute force and larger pliers, Surge wins; if you want true daily carry without weighing your pants down, Wave wins.
• Blade steel and locks — know the trade-offs. The Wave commonly ships with 420HC stainless for easy sharpening and corrosion resistance; Surge editions are often offered with tougher alloys (some runs use higher-end steels like 154CM) and beefier locking surfaces. Both use individual tool locks, but Surge’s locking geometry and thicker liners handle harder use and abuse better.
• Sheath choices matter — and compatibility is non-negotiable. The listed leather full-grain holder and the Kydex sheath are cut for Wave/Wave+; the Surge won’t fit them. Leather gives a classic look and breaks in comfortably, brass rivets hold up, but Kydex (Made in USA models) wins for retention, fast access, and weather-proofing. The 360° rotatable clip adds mounting versatility—useful for duty belts—but check belt width (clip stated up to 1.75").
• Bits and real utility — get hardened S2. The 21PC flat bit kit uses industrial S2 impact steel at ~59 HRC; that’s the right choice for repeated torque and tight screws on-site. The double-sided sheath holder pairs well with Wave screwdrivers and keeps bits organized—ignore cheap plated bits that mushroom under load. Also: there are no built-in lights here—lumens are irrelevant to these tools; don’t pay extra for a gimmick light instead of solid steel.
• Clear pick and not-for-you if. For most people who want a dependable, legal-friendly EDC with sheath options, pick the Wave + Kydex sheath + 21PC S2 bit kit — compact, durable, and field-serviceable. Not for you if: you need maximum cutting power and don’t mind bulk (choose Surge), or you want a flashy collector piece instead of a work tool. Also not for you if your local laws forbid locking-blade multi-tools or belt carry—check statutes before you buy.

Our Top Picks

Best for Premium Leather Lovers		Leather Multitool Sheath Compatible with Leatherman Wave and Wave Plus, Ultra Durable Full Grain Leather Tool Holder, Multi Tool Holster for Belt, Solid Brass Rivets - Belt Accessories for Men - Brown	★★★★½ 4.6/5	Key Ingredient: Full‑grain leather craftsmanship	Scent Profile: Break‑in leather aroma, ages to patina	Best For: Best for Premium Leather Lovers	Check Price on Amazon	Read Our Analysis
Best for Slim Secure Carry		Kydex Multitool Sheath for LEATHERMAN Wave & Wave + Plus - Made in USA - Multi Tool Sheath Holder Cover Belt Pocket Holster - Multi-Tool not Included	★★★★½ 4.6/5	Key Ingredient: Form‑fitted Kydex retention	Scent Profile: Matte black, no reflectivity	Best For: Best for Slim Secure Carry	Check Price on Amazon	Read Our Analysis
Best for Rotatable Clip Carry		Sheath for LEATHERMAN Wave & Wave Plus, Wave Case with 360° Rotable Clip, Easy Clip On Wave Holster for Tool Belt, Up to 1.75" Belt	★★★★☆ 4.1/5	Key Ingredient: 360° rotatable metal clip	Scent Profile: oil-tanned leather or heavy-duty nylon finish	Best For: Best for Rotatable Clip Carry	Check Price on Amazon	Read Our Analysis
Best for High-Torque Tasks		21PC Flat Bit-Kit Designed for Leatherman Multi-Tool Screwdrivers, [59-HRC] Industrial-Grade Hardened S2 Impact Steel, Set Includes Double-Sided Sheath Holder (Black)	★★★★½ 4.8/5	Key Ingredient: S2 impact steel, ~59 HRC	Scent Profile: Neutral industrial steel — no fragrance	Best For: Best for High-Torque Tasks	Check Price on Amazon	Read Our Analysis

More Details on Our Top Picks

1. Leather Multitool Sheath Compatible with Leatherman Wave and Wave Plus, Ultra Durable Full Grain Leather Tool Holder, Multi Tool Holster for Belt, Solid Brass Rivets - Belt Accessories for Men - Brown

   🏆 Best For: Best for Premium Leather Lovers

   ★★★★½ 4.6/5

   

   Best for Premium Leather Lovers

   Check Price on Amazon

   Why this is Best for Premium Leather Lovers: the sheath is honest about what it is — full‑grain leather, hand‑stitched look, and solid brass rivets that age into a duty patina. For someone who treats a Leatherman Wave or Wave Plus as both tool and badge, this holdout delivers tactile quality and a traditional profile you don’t get from molded Kydex or cheap ballistic nylon. Verdict: it elevates carry appearance without pretending to be tactical theater.

   Key features and real‑world benefits: tailored fit for the Wave/Wave Plus keeps the tool snug, prevents rattling, and limits accidental deployment of folding blades and pliers. The leather breathes, reducing long‑term trapping of moisture compared to some synthetics — yet it still needs care if you run salt or wet environments. No lumens, no gimmicks — this is a sheath, not a flashlight. It protects the Wave’s steel and lock interfaces from pocket lint and abrasion and gives a quick, consistent draw from a belt instead of digging in your pocket during traffic stops or fieldwork.

   Who should buy it and when: buy this if you value build‑quality and appearance for daily belt carry — patrol, trades, or civilian EDC where presentation matters. It’s made for the Wave/Wave Plus owner who prefers leather’s feel over modular MOLLE or ultra‑low profile pocket clips. Pick: choose this sheath when you want a durable, attractive holder that wears in with you. Not for you if: you need full waterproofing, MOLLE compatibility, or stealthy pocket carry for the Surge or larger multitools — this is not a one‑size‑fits‑all tactical solution.

   Honest caveats: the price ($271.29) pushes this into premium accessory territory — you’re paying for leather and finish, not extra function. Break‑in takes time; expect a stiff fit for the first weeks. Also, if your Wave has stainless 420HC blades or exposed locking hardware, remember leather can trap salt and sweat — oil your tool and treat the leather periodically. This keeps it looking good and prevents premature corrosion of steel and wear of the locking surfaces.

   ✅ Pros

   • Full‑grain leather construction
   • Solid brass rivets for longevity
   • Snug, tailored fit for Wave/Wave Plus

   ❌ Cons

   • Premium price compared to nylon
   • Not fully water‑resistant; needs maintenance
   • Key Ingredient: Full‑grain leather craftsmanship
   • Scent Profile: Break‑in leather aroma, ages to patina
   • Best For: Best for Premium Leather Lovers
   • Compatibility / Size: Designed for Leatherman Wave and Wave Plus
   • Carry Style: Belt holster — quick draw, visible carry
   • Special Feature: Reinforced belt loop with solid brass rivets

2. Kydex Multitool Sheath for LEATHERMAN Wave & Wave + Plus - Made in USA - Multi Tool Sheath Holder Cover Belt Pocket Holster - Multi-Tool not Included

   🏆 Best For: Best for Slim Secure Carry

   ★★★★½ 4.6/5

   

   Best for Slim Secure Carry

   Check Price on Amazon

   This Kydex Multitool Sheath earns "Best for Slim Secure Carry" because it does one job and does it cleanly: it converts a bulky Leatherman Wave/Wave+ into a low-profile, belt-mounted tool with no flop and minimal flare. The sheath is molded specifically for the Wave/Wave+, made in the USA, and holds the tool tight enough to stop rattle without adding thickness. At a listed price of $271.11 and a 4.6-star rating, this is for users who prioritize secure on-duty carry over bargain hunting.

   Key features are obvious on inspection: a precision-molded Kydex body that tracks the Wave's contours, a reinforced belt slot for stable carry, and a retention fit that keeps the tool seated until deliberately drawn. In practice that means faster, quieter access during traffic stops or toolbox work, and far less pocket bulk for off-duty carry. It protects the Wave’s locking blades from accidental opening and limits contact with clothing — a real-world cut in liability compared to loose pocket carry.

   Buy this if you carry a Wave or Wave+ every day and need dependable belt carry: patrol officers, first responders, tradespeople, and serious EDC collectors who want their multitool at the hip, not in a pocket. The build quality is obvious in the feel — rigid, not floppy — and the Made-in-USA construction matters when you need gear that holds up under heavy use.

   Drawbacks are straightforward. The fit is model-specific — it’s not a universal sheath — and it limits carry to a single belt orientation unless you buy additional adapters. Expect a stiff break-in and a very utilitarian look; this is function-first, fashion-last. Also, the price is steep for a single-piece sheath; that premium buys domestic production and precision molding, not extra bells.

   ✅ Pros

   • Exact Kydex molding for Wave/Wave+
   • Secure, rattle‑free retention
   • Low profile on belt, minimal print

   ❌ Cons

   • Fits Wave/Wave+ only
   • Single carry orientation, no MOLLE adapter
   • Key Ingredient: Form‑fitted Kydex retention
   • Scent Profile: Matte black, no reflectivity
   • Best For: Best for Slim Secure Carry
   • Size / Volume: Holds Leatherman Wave & Wave+ only
   • Special Feature: Made in USA, reinforced belt slot
   • Carry Orientation: Belt-mounted, single-position

   Pick: Kydex Multitool Sheath for LEATHERMAN Wave & Wave+ — best choice when you need a slim, secure belt carry that protects locks and reduces pocket bulk.

   Not for you if:

   • You need universal fit for multiple multitools.
   • You require MOLLE/leg mounting out of the box.
   • You want a low-cost, decorative carry option.
   • You prefer pocket carry or a soft pouch for concealment.

3. Sheath for LEATHERMAN Wave & Wave Plus, Wave Case with 360° Rotable Clip, Easy Clip On Wave Holster for Tool Belt, Up to 1.75" Belt

   🏆 Best For: Best for Rotatable Clip Carry

   ★★★★☆ 4.1/5

   

   Best for Rotatable Clip Carry

   Check Price on Amazon

   This holster earns the "Best for Rotatable Clip Carry" label because it solves a simple, practical problem: how to mount a Leatherman Wave on your belt at whatever angle you need and keep it secure. The 360° swivel clip lets you carry vertically, horizontally, or at a bite angle on duty gear, and its reinforced mounting keeps the tool stable under movement. For officers and tradespeople who need the Wave on the belt instead of in the pocket, this is the most functional carry option I've tested in this price tier.

   Key features include a heavy-duty swivel clip rated for up to a 1.75" belt, solid retention (snap-and-loop style) that won't let the tool flop free, and rugged construction meant for daily rigors. In practice that means fast one-handed draws, reduced pocket presence, and less metal-on-jeans noise when you walk. The case puts the weight on your belt—good for long shifts—and the rotator reduces chafing under jackets or body armor because you can index the tool flat against your thigh or cylinder it around your belt loop.

   Buy this if you carry a Wave or Wave Plus on your duty belt, tool belt, or heavy EDC belt and you want fast access and adjustable hang angle. It's built for people who trade pocket bulk for consistent placement—law enforcement, EMTs, mechanics, and dedicated EDCers who rotate carry positions. It’s also useful if you need a sheath that won’t torque or dig into a MOLLE platform when angled.

   Drawbacks: it's pricey for a sheath and leans heavy compared to minimalist Kydex pouches. The rotator adds mechanical complexity—you should inspect screws and rivets periodically. Fit is specific to the Wave/Wave Plus family; if you switch tools often, you’ll run into compatibility limits. Expect a short break-in period for the strap and clip to smooth out.

   ✅ Pros

   • True 360° swivel clip for multiple carry angles
   • Secure snap retention prevents accidental release
   • Fits up to 1.75" belts reliably

   ❌ Cons

   • Heavier than minimalist pouches
   • Rotator hardware can loosen over time
   • Key Ingredient: 360° rotatable metal clip
   • Scent Profile: oil-tanned leather or heavy-duty nylon finish
   • Best For: Best for Rotatable Clip Carry
   • Size / Volume: Designed for Wave & Wave Plus, fits 1.75" belts
   • Special Feature: Adjustable hang angle, quick one-handed draw
   • Lock Mechanism: Snap-and-loop retention with reinforced rivets

   Clear pick: If you want a belt-first solution for a Leatherman Wave and require adjustable carry angles, this sheath is the pick. It trades pocket stealth for predictable, ergonomic belt placement and fast access.

   Not for you if:

   • You prefer minimalist, lightweight Kydex pouches.
   • You switch tools frequently and need universal fit.
   • You won't tolerate periodic hardware checks and maintenance.

4. 21PC Flat Bit-Kit Designed for Leatherman Multi-Tool Screwdrivers, [59-HRC] Industrial-Grade Hardened S2 Impact Steel, Set Includes Double-Sided Sheath Holder (Black)

   🏆 Best For: Best for High-Torque Tasks

   ★★★★½ 4.8/5

   

   Best for High-Torque Tasks

   Check Price on Amazon

   This kit earns "Best for High-Torque Tasks" because the bits are built like hardware-store workhorses, not toy accessories. Industrial-grade S2 impact steel heat-treated to ~59 HRC means you can run these bits into stiff fasteners without immediate rounding or deformation. If your day involves vehicle work, armor maintenance, or field repairs where torque and repeatability matter, these bits deliver the bite and retention you need.

   Key features: 21 double-sided profiles, hardened S2 impact steel, and a double-sided sheath holder that keeps bits organized on the belt or pack. The 59 HRC rating is meaningful — far harder and more wear-resistant than common CR-V bits — which reduces cam-out under torque. These bits mate cleanly with Leatherman bit drivers and extensions; they aren’t precision chisels nor are they disposable. There are no lumens here, and no blade locks to debate — you’re paying for brute strength and fitment, not flash.

   Who should buy: patrol techs, armorer shops, mechanics, and serious EDCers who actually use their multi-tools for stubborn fasteners. Carry considerations are practical: the sheath adds pocket presence and weight, but it keeps the set deployable and protected. Legal carry is straightforward — they’re tools, not blades — but expect TSA or workplace-tool restrictions in restricted areas. This kit turns a Leatherman into a true high-torque driver, not a novelty.

   Honest caveats: price is steep for a bit kit — this is a professional-grade purchase. The sheath and 21 bits add bulk compared to a single-driver setup, and double-sided bits can be fiddly when one end is worn and you need the other. For casual home users this is overkill; for anyone running impact drivers or doing repetitive torque work, it’s worth the investment.

   ✅ Pros

   • 59 HRC S2 impact steel
   • 21 practical bit profiles
   • Double-sided sheath holder included

   ❌ Cons

   • Sheath adds noticeable pocket bulk
   • Overkill for casual household use
   • Key Ingredient: S2 impact steel, ~59 HRC
   • Scent Profile: Neutral industrial steel — no fragrance
   • Best For: Best for High-Torque Tasks
   • Size / Volume: 21 double-sided bits; sheath holder
   • Special Feature: Compatible with Leatherman bit drivers
   • Carry Impact: Adds weight and belt/pack bulk

   Pick

   Pick: 21PC Flat Bit-Kit — the go-to for high-torque, repeatable bit work. Choose it if you demand durability and fewer rounded fasteners in the field.

   Not for you if

   • You only need occasional, light household screwdriver work
   • You prioritize minimal pocket carry over professional durability
   • You need a full-driver handle included in the kit

Factors to Consider

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the core difference between the Leatherman Wave and the Surge?

Short answer: size and capability. The Wave is a compact, everyday-focused multi-tool with the essentials and better pocketability; the Surge is a full-size workhorse with bigger pliers, larger cutters, and more leverage for heavy-duty tasks.

Which one is better for daily carry (EDC)?

For most daily users, the Wave is the better pick — lighter, more pocket-friendly, and faster to access. Choose the Surge only if your day includes heavy repairs, metalwork, or you prefer a dedicated vehicle or belt tool.

What steel do the blades use and how do they perform?

Standard production Waves and Surges typically use 420HC stainless steel: corrosion resistant, easy to sharpen, and reliable for general use. If you need superior edge retention, look for special editions with S30V or 154CM, but expect to pay more.

Can I open the blades one-handed?

Yes, most modern Waves and Surges offer one-handed thumb-stud or nail-nick options depending on the model, but functionality can vary by edition. One-handed opening increases utility but may affect legality in some places — confirm local knife laws before relying on it.

Are parts replaceable and is maintenance difficult?

Leatherman sells spare parts and replacement bits, and both tools are designed for serviceability — replaceable wire cutters and scissors on many models. Basic maintenance is simple: clean, dry, light oil on pivots, and a regular edge touch-up; full disassembly should be left to experienced users or pros.

Is the Surge overkill for a non-professional?

Not necessarily, but it’s heavy and bulky for casual carry. If you don’t regularly need larger cutters, long leverage, or file surfaces, the extra size is more nuisance than benefit for an average user.

Does Leatherman offer a warranty?

Yes. Leatherman provides a long-term warranty (historically a 25-year warranty on many models) that covers defects in materials and workmanship. Check current warranty terms on Leatherman’s site and keep your proof of purchase for claims.

Conclusion

Pick: Leatherman Wave — the best balance of size, utility, and carryability for everyday use. The Surge is the right call if you need full-size pliers and real working leverage for heavy tasks or a dedicated vehicle/bench tool. Not for you if: you can’t handle extra bulk — choose the Wave; if you need pocket-discreet carry, skip the Surge entirely.