Black or Stainless Leatherman Wave?

J

jtodd

Joined
May 22, 2006
Messages
7
Hey everybody :)

I'm gonna pick up a Wave multi-tool, but I'm unsure whether to get the black or stainless steel version.

Can anybody comment on the experiences they've had with either one? Anybody have any recommendations? Does the black stand up to harsh environments better or is it just a "tactical" option?
 
I had a black Wave that was stolen. My wife picked up a stainless one to replace it. I would have preferred she had bought another black one. But it's not a rational decision. Black finish could mar but had a nice patina.
 
Having used tools in the maintenance field over the years the last thing I wanted was a tool that could not be found if dropped in a darkened place. On the other hand I find the side clip on my SS Leatherman tools shine like a beacon.... I guess Ideal would be a Stainless tool with a black clip if one is used.
 
I prefer stainless because the black just rubs off and scratches up regardless of how good it may be at first. Both are nice though. I carry my Wave now because of the one hand opening blades and the scissors. These are simply the most user friendly blades I have used on a Multi Tool. The scissors are ok and they do work well, but perhaps the best thing about them is they open all the way around and allow you to access the edges for easy maintainance of them so they are always sharp.

I'll tell you what else. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the plain edge blade is a very sharp and effective slicer also. In fact its a down right good whittler and quite comfortable in the hand evne in the hardests wood. Unlike the Swiss Tools that had to have the plain edge blade sharpened to please me the Wave came sharp as can be and ready to go.

STR
 
I still have my old-style wave in my jeep. Have had that multi for almost 7 years. I believe the original never came with a black-oxide finish.

And to add, didn't somebody here suggest that the balck-oxide finishes are more durable when it comes to rust issues? :confused:

Apart from the "tactical" advantage, wasn't that the other plus? :thumbup:

Anybody? :rolleyes:
 
The black oxide finish is definitely cooler; too bad the old Wave didn't come that way. In my experience with other black oxide tools, it should stay on well enough. I don't care about a few scrapes, certainly no worse than the normal scratches you get on a polished tool. Rust you will have to deal with in either case.
Dave
 
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