🛠 Leatherman Wave + Clone ($24!) But is it good?

[@teapeabartle4046]

Leatherman need to give us a true wave replacement if they want to stop customers going with cheaper options that are getting so good now.

[@kctyphoon]

Not sure what you mean. Leatherman offers a huge selection of tools at different price points to fit different budgets. And you are getting a 25 year warranty that includes free tool replacment if need be. A Leatherman tool is a quality, life long tool. These $20 copycats are nowhere near the real thing, no matter how similar they make them appear. It's not like a Wave is a $300 investment. It's about $100 for something that works every time you need it to. It would cost you about $100 just to purchase the tools included in the wave, separately.

[@MrLevercorien]

@@kctyphoon maybe too much trust on it... It's at the end, only a multitool, it will never be better than a real cutting Pliers... And no matter the brand... It's too expensif for what is it...

[@kctyphoon]

@@MrLevercorien well all I can say is buy a Leatherman, use it for a year and get back to me. I have a wave, wave plus, surge, and free p4. I do not leave my house without one of them in my pocket, (usually the wave plus or free P4) and I am not kind to them. I've been a lineman for the last 22 years and started carrying a wave at least 10 years ago. 3 others guys at work followed suit once they realized how convenient having one is. No, it does not "replace" my $40 diagonals or $50 lineman pliers- but it saves me from having to walk back to a truck to get a tool to do one or two quick things. I thought the same thing you did at first, and was convinced that buying a gerber diesel would be the same thing as a leatherman wave for half the money, so I did that. When I actually spent the money on a Wave, I quickly realized how wrong I was. I even bought this China copy to see it for myself. "My" review comment on it is posted on here somewhere. I promise you, it's a $20 tool that looks and feels like a $20 tool. And it's also no coincidence these youtube "commericals" that praise it have affiliate links provided for people to buy one. They dont post those links just to be nice ya know. As with anything else in life, small differences sometimes come at a big expense. When u pick up a leatherman and compare it to something like this - you easily see what that extra money bought you. That's not a biased opinion, it's just a fact.

[@kctyphoon]

@@acidlab9586 I agree completely. People that think a $20 copycat is just as good as Leatherman tool simply dont own a Leatherman. Yea, if your just going to cut tape, open letters, and pull the occasional fuse - a $20 tool will do that just as well as a leatherman. The difference is when you start asking a small tool to do a 'not so small' job. One will, and the other MIGHT. It's the same as trying to compare $7 pliers to a pair that cost $40. They might look the same, but they aren't.

[@ghostlight69420]

There are suicide nets in the chinese factories where these are made. Cope and seethe

[@remfj40]

Picked up the Black version during event. For less than a 1/3 the price of the Wave and used as a back up vehicle emergency tool. I am very happy.

[@AdAce21]

same here. Thanks MaxLv for cluing us onto this one

[@leinadqse5300]

im so tempted to get it

[@remfj40]

@@leinadqse5300 Believe you would not be disappointed.

[@leinadqse5300]

@@remfj40 I just ordered the leatherman rebar 😅 I feel like I should start with something classic !

[@remfj40]

@@leinadqse5300 Not a bad choice. Once you have the rebar, getting a clone as a back up may give you an appreciation of the little differences. It may also question if those "differences" were worth the price difference. Enjoy and have fun. I started with a Wave for the same reason... Classic.

[@sarrasmith2508]

My leatherman Wave+ with the black coating had insanely tight pivots. I had to purchase two bits to loosen the pivots enough to actually get the blades and file out without needing a pair of pliers to pull them out... Super fast adjustment, and all is good now. The plier pivot was also really really sticky on mine, but I put some heavy knife pivot lube in it, worked it back and forth for a bit, and it loosened up enough that it's just about perfect, without getting floppy.

[@extra_nothing]

I think you're right on with the scissor / awl changes and the potential for clones to make those moves first. Appreciate the detail you go into with these reviews, too.

[@AtomicBleach]

Ok 1 month report of wearing the flissa clone to work daily. Ive used the pliers to hold 1/2 and 9/16 nuts while I use the impact on the other side. Ive used the knife to open packages, sharpen many a pencil, and for cutting up things for lunch. It works well and holds a edge well especially if you give it a slight secondary convex. Ive used the saw on plastic and the occasional tree branch or vine thats in the way. I appreciate the slightly larger teeth. I rarely ever use the file since I have dedicated file sets, but I do use the file to hide a pair of tweezers that I use daily to dig out metal splinters. The cutters are incredible for the price of the tool. It can easily cut 12/2 romex, and the single notch really is nice for stripping smaller wire. I occasionally use the precision flathead for straightening the center wire in antenna wire, works great as a little pokey bit. The bit driver I replaced with a klien ph2 and 1/4" flathead. Which I took a very small file to the end of the phillips so it could still handle small screws but would have decent bite on normal phillips. I still need to get a magnet and to file down the 1/4" driver to be flush so I can use it for machine screws. I've been waiting a month for my amazon return period to end. I will also take a Dremel to some hotspots, because this thing is not the most comfortable to use as a knife. Scissors are way better than any scissors should be on a tool I spent $25 on. Overall Im impressed! Ive honestly destroyed previous Leatherman and Gerbers treating them the same way Ive treated this cheap clone. Ive had a MP600's jaws shatter while using a impact on a nut lol. Difference is I don't have a warranty where I get a working tool back after 3 months of hazing the company. With these clones you break or lose them under a customers house or attic and you can get a new one in a day, that's right every one Ive bought was shipped that day ... I ordered one in the morning and it was at my doorstep when I got back from work.

[@maxlvledc]

wow, really good to know! thanks for keeping me updated! can you pop in for a 1 year? if you do I'll send you something!

[@AtomicBleach]

@@maxlvledc for sure. It will be interesting to see in a years time what changes they make to these clones.

[@syaifudinbatuk]

Harga nya berapa

[@Najj85]

​@@maxlvledcyess that would be nice if you can give a update after a year of use. Thanks for this video and for the review @Atomicbleach

[@mikemcaulay9507]

You’ve reviewed another multitool not that long ago that I bought and have been thrilled with. The NexTool with its full size scissors made it my go to for tasks because having a solid comfortable set of scissors turned out to the last piece I’ve always missed. I’ve avoided the scissors part of multitools because I found them too small and flimsy for anything I actually needed to cut. The only thing I wish they had was the 1/4 bit driver. That thing looks awesome! Thanks for doing the hard leg work of finding such great bargain tools.

[@maxlvledc]

It's fun!

[@2ballsyourjaws]

It's odd you mention those scissors brother I happened up on a real good deal caught some nice medical shears with a kydex sheath on sale I think you still can grab them on Amazon but I started carrying scissors along with my multi-tool it took a couple days to kind of get used to the change on my belt which was very minimal I must say I think it was more the grab the scissors instead of the multi-tool because I'm a creature of habit but in less than 72 hours and yeah possibly because I need the scissors very frequently it was an absolute game changer for my EDC

[@robertmills4980]

Not to mention I'm getting most of my LM'S at pawn shops just scored a primo blast for 56 bucks with Ole school sheath😁

[@dvalentine08]

Lost my wave to a flood. Almost bought a Wingman for $69 until I saw they previously were $40. With that gouging in mind, I happily purchased a clone.

[@miketucker2817]

just grabbed a black, for the price, you cant beat it. all my leathermans are dying after years of use and i cant get rid of them since they cost so MUCH! ya know? anyway, thanks for the video! these clones and no-name tools are coming a long way. i hope leatherman can actually keep up.

[@tyleredwards6489]

As long as they aren't 25 years old you can send it in to be repaired/replaced. They have a guarantee on all parts.

[@Fobes]

I have sent a couple in for repair and got brand new ones as replacement for free.

[@idontno0]

Yea you can get it refurbished or they might give you a new one.

[@sausagehead9151]

I agree , I prefer the full hex driver of the clones over the proprietary bit driver of the leatherman. If the clones come out with their own t shank quick change for the file or saw like the surge that would interest me.

[@markhemerick6263]

My input. I own a wave if I would had the options 25 years ago. Leatherman would never have a chance. My personnel favorite today is the gorden for 40. You compare new people they will not waste money on leatherman.thankyou for your great video.

[@Rottwiler44]

21:22 tbh, if my leathermans screwdriver can’t handle whatever I’m trying to screw or unscrew, then you need a real screwdriver. I’ve never had a problem with my charges screwdriver, and I’ve owned it for 11 year. Plus, when the ratcheting bit driver came out, it made it even better because it then allowed me to use the leatherman in a pistol grip configuration more comfortable. A lot of people forget multi tools is that if you have nothing else, its great to have, but if you have a real version of any tool in a multi tool, the multi tool just can’t compare. My multi tool is my last resort when I have my tools with me, and my first resort when it’s either all I have or if my tools are farther away.

[@jimmyc7803]

had a little problem with the black flissa when it came yesterday. broke it in. seems ok now, sending my favorite surge to Oregon tomorrow. Bit holder will not hold any bits. I chose the option to fix it or send it back broken.

[@AtomicBleach]

The swisstech 18-1 looks to be very similar to the Ozark trail multi tool but for quite a bit cheaper. At least from pictures looks like the main difference is the scissors are a little more stout, and there aren't lines etched into the handle.

[@viniciusreis2211]

Swisstech and Ozark trail own the same OEM, GreatStar Tools, which bought SK Tools. In practice they are the same tool! Greetings from Brazil and sorry for the bad English, I used google translator.

[@1683clifton]

Having lost broken or given away several waves and even surge, I added on to my motorcycle kit, because having a tool you might break loose is way better than breaking losing a hundo plus wave.

[@BenCase88]

I carry multiple knives on my always but I didn't have a multiple tool. I picked up one of the clones because I think it will be fine for what I need it for which is around the home chores mostly

[@FredPrana]

I prefer the Leatherman Bits because they take less space. Therefore, I can take a larger selection with me and be more flexible. If I needed them every day at work, I would use a real screwdriver.

[@dancearoundtheworld5360]

Whatever rocks your boat, id like to put Spyder and Makita impact rated bit in it.

[@KINGACE9]

​@@dancearoundtheworld5360 Exactly how I feel.

[@johnherzel718]

While I don’t have the “Wave” I do have and use my “Rebar” almost every day. I don’t miss the bit driver, but I do want the scissors. Other than that I find the Rebar to be lightweight and compact enough to not need to upgrade to the Wave. I would love for the Rebar to have a pocket clip, because the sheath tends to ride a bit high on my belt, so I tend to just pocket it loose. All things considered I would trade the saw for the scissor and a pocket clip. I bought the Ozark Trail and the Wetools clones, and for the price I’m happy. But they are noticeably too heavy for comfortable EDC so they have been relegated to the glove box in both of my cars. I will actually get one of the Flissa clones because they look to be a good pocketable option for trail riding (where losing one is more likely than product failure- I would cry if I lost my Leatherman) and the price is right. On the trail the bit driver is even more important to accept standard bits (star drive and Allen keys are the norm, Phillips is usually not needed) and scissors are also a requirement. Nice job with the details!

[@unfi6798]

Been using the Oz Trail for years & it's as good as Learherman or SOG. Made a few mod to suit requirement, still running on full tank. Our Wave clone kick ass on the Leatherman on longevity of quality & extended guarantee. Just because it's less expensive does not mean it's cheap quality. Cowabunga mate.

[@CandC68]

The EDC multi-tool I want to see is one with: Needle nose pliers/cutters Sharp knife Reciprocal saw blade holder, 6" blades, folding Storage for one spare blade Can opener Nail/metal file Hex drive (that separates from tool for tool repair/maintenance) I'll still carry my Swiss Army pocket/pouch knife for little things.

[@dfernandez3482]

I recently got the black Flissa clone. The bit holder doesn't hold an extender that well, it just falls out. One would need to glue a magnet to the bottom of their extender or find one that's magnetic Other than that it's a pretty good multitool 👍

[@AtomicBleach]

Can confirm. A 2x6mm magnet works, but it pushes the stock double sided bit out enough that the ball detent doesn't really work that well. I added a magnet and lost my bit the first week of using it. It must have just fallen right out when I opened the pliers at one point.

[@AdAce21]

I grabbed the black version. Seems like a quality tool and the price is nuts. Any clue what steel they use? And someone needs to make this - 23:55

[@JG-nw3ub]

@22:15, it seems that it was quite easy to flex the tool to realign. I can hardly do that on my wave+ showing that it is way more robust than these clones. Even with that said, I’m still intrigued to pick one of these up just to beat on and throw it in the ringer.

[@RandomGuy-qm3mg]

Leatherman needs to take a lot at what Japanese manufactures did years ago. Everyone loved the quality of cameras made in Japan but the cost of labor there got so high that they finally had to open factories in other countries to cut costs. Nikon and Canon have factories in Thailand and Taiwan for example. Leatherman needs to follow that example at least on their lower cost models. Great video and can't wait to see a Surge clone! Would love a less expensive version to keep in the car or take camping.

[@maxlvledc]

He'll, I'd love one just to pirate components

[@michaelcosta7235]

I won't buy a non-USA LM and I'm sure I'm not alone.

[@RandomGuy-qm3mg]

@@michaelcosta7235 I'm sure your not but when the basic LM models go over $100 and good quality clones are $30 they won't be selling very many. They will always have a market but it'll get smaller every year. my two cents value prediction.

[@IlmarBeekman]

@@RandomGuy-qm3mg only if we keep allowing china to manipulate our markets. Just my 2 cents.

[@morganghetti]

I have no loyalty to leatherman. They raised their prices 70 percent in just a few years. They make nice tool, but they are too expensive now.

[@timwingers]

The scissors on my Multiforce broke the 2nd time I used it. Even so scissors and files aren't tools I tend to care about. However, with the extender, I prefer the Multiforce bit driver over the Leatherman. Why? Looking through old bits I already had, I found dozens that fit the Multiforce. That includes a 5 inch nail puller, a marlin spike, and a socket adapter. These tools give me even more flexibility of use.

[@maxlvledc]

Yea, some people have had the scissors last for a while and some broke immediately

[@johnsmith-sy2jg]

You have a marlin spike bit? And it fits the Multi Force?

[@eggamyer3371]

I just picked up a Bibury for $25!!

[@r.b.fraunhofer1655]

I just purchased the Flissa. Smooth blade had a foldover burr, Saw teeth have burrs left on them, two of the liner locks did not work, the scissors will not cut paracord. Serrated blade has some nicks on the spine. Other than that, it's very competittve with the Wave, pliers work well. I was attracted to the replaceable jaws, should have tried the Wal-Mart model I suppose. This tool still has a lot of sharp edges that would need to be rounded over for frequent use. So, is the $70 savings worth it for the hour I spent sharpening and fixing most of these problems? Worked OK for me as I bought it for suitcase or glove box duty. Unit in this video must have been a "review version" or I got one made Friday afternoon at the end of the month.

[@maxlvledc]

Some times it's true, but no, these I purchased myself. I guess I got lucky

[@Bear-Cat207]

@@maxlvledc I just purchased one and I'm impressed. I didn't have any problems at all.

[@germanprepper]

So I have both and every day use leatherman for the win! On the flip side if you are throwing the flissa in a backpack or glove box of the wife's or a kid who is old enough to drives vehicle or tackle box the flissa will shine if it isn't used a lot it works just fine especially for around 30$

[@Castleknight]

Where can you get double sided detent bits to fit the Flissa? Can you explain more about your magnet mod?

[@maxlvledc]

I think that would be good for another video, but klein has the bits that work. And you just need a 1/4" by 1/16" round magnet. You can get them at lowes

[@Castleknight]

@@maxlvledc Thanks

[@jamesleary1405]

Leatherman major downfall imo is the proprietary bit system, Now I don't stand behind clones one bit but it's hard to ignore that in some cases these clones these day's have big ups against the authentic brand's and that's a problem. These hig end companies need to step up and shut this down by producing something that just isn't worth being cloned without jacking the price up making said clone not worth buying. But yeah I agree it's actually scary how close that flissa brand is to the Leatherman and the fact it has a better bit tool kinda gives it some edge over the Leatherman imo and that is a big issue.

[@CastorRabbit]

Yeah, the bit system, the mini bit driver and those stupid replaceable plier wire cutters. I miss my old wave. This new one? I think I'd rather the chinese one

[@jamesleary1405]

@castorchua I've been carrying that byberry one and using it alot and it's never failed me yet. I've used most the tools on more then one occasion and everything on this clone version has been impressive which isn't good for companies like Leatherman.

[@collinis1]

I bought the black one on prime day. The pliers got stuck closed. I took the cutters off and polished off the burr and they don't bind any more. The knife is a little tough to open fast because the edges on the spydo hole are rounded.

[@maxlvledc]

Yea, funny..they did extra work and it wasn't necessary lols

[@tikofthetoka5650]

I keep hearing negativity around Leatherman clones, so I copied this from my direct response to another comment. Ok. I know that there is a passion for USA made and for Leatherman. But every patent will expire. There's nothing we can do about it. After that, it's in the public domain. You want a circular saw? Go shop around, there's plenty to choose from. The patent expired, so you can now buy a Makita, Rigged, Stanley. We're not boycotting Lowe's for their version. Leatherman is the same. They have to innovate if they want Leatherman only products. So, you buy a competitor version if it's good for you, or buy the original. And this makes KZbin content. It's out of our hands.

[@exceleratorjoshua]

I pulled the trigger on this multitool 40 bucks and so versatile. Who knows how long it will last.

[@mrjoshua6979]

Aren’t we being a tad bit anal about a $20 multitool. I mean almost all leathermans are $100+ now. Even the small ones are about $50 now a days. With gas at $6 gallon and no end in sight can you really go wrong with one of these tools. I mean I know everyone here has seen those garbage Chinese victorinox or multitools before. At $20-30 these are more of a vehicle beater or junk drawer in the house use tool. They aren’t that bad quality anymore. Before for $20 you got something where blade bent backwards and everything was pot metal. Is anyone gonna buy one these and go hiking in the mountains where their life could depend on it. No. For what it is and the price f it. If you break it or couple tools break throw it in the scrap metal bin and grab another one

[@jimmyc7803]

Try to ignore the trolls kid. been beating the heck out of the Wally wave and some of the bibury clones for about 2 years now. just picked up a couple of the flissa variants. not crazy about them yet, but a little work , they’ll be fine. I also have 10 or so leathermans collected since the early ‘80s in case the trolls accuse me of being anti American. It’s just that Leatherman has priced me out.

[@IlmarBeekman]

It’s not that Leatherman has priced you out. It’s that china controls it’s currency to take advantage of our markets. Leatherman CANT compete for your money at these prices. You may not think you are being anti American, but given the current trade imbalances you actually are.

[@IlmarBeekman]

And don’t forget the complete lack of enforcing patent or copyright law.

[@toddski7011]

@@IlmarBeekman we here in the USA also control/manipulate our currency via the Fed which is currently raising interest rates at a fast pace to try to help with inflation. Economics lesson finished for today.

[@Genesis992]

I’d personally change the scissors with the saw before I did the file. I never use saws

[@idontno0]

I don't mind the leatherman bits since you can carry two bit kits in the sheath with the ratchet or bit extender. It's more of I don't have a screw driver or the right bits with me so at least I have something to get it done. It's most of a last resort or second choice over a dedicated tool. But at least you have something that can get it done even if it's not the best.

[@timbeatty11]

I bought the clone. I will only use it a few times a year and not in a hard way. For a tool I just keep in my truck its great. I bought the Bibury

[@donaldnaymon3270]

Great information Thank you for sharing

[@TopDog8762]

I should have taken advantage of the Prime day sale. But hey its still only 30 bucks. Not bad at all.

[@marygrace5231]

I agree whole 💜 edly with you. From the stand point that they are inexpensive and if they are "almost " "just" as good minus the longevity, they make perfect sense for

[@marygrace5231]

Something light the wife's car or bug-out bag and such.(For stuff or situations where you might need them or on occasion.)

[@McRootbeer]

How long do you think it'll be before we start seeing skeletool/signal/free series clones?

[@maxlvledc]

Good ones? A long timr

[@dlajb]

@@maxlvledc yeah there are already some Skeletools clones out there, but with way inferior quality.

[@censusgary]

Lots of multi-tools have both a saw and a serrated blade. I don’t know of anything a serrated knife blade cuts that I can’t cut with either a saw or a plain blade. I’d rather they use that space for another tool instead of the serrated knife.

[@maxlvledc]

yep, like a full sized scissor.

[@MrRanger59]

Just received my black version of the Flissa multitool. Like everyone has mentioned, the straight blade requires 2 hands to open. Guess I'll try to loosen the torx screw. Saw Blade worked well sawing thru a #2 pencil. Liner lock working but I did need to push out the one for the straight blade. I like the rounded handle when using the pliers. Just wished it was spring loaded. I like the pouch with the snap, but wish it had a pouch to put extra bits like the Bibury pouch.

[@georgemitchell8991]

Mine was tight for the first 2 days after i got it i used it like a figit device and just kept opening and closing it as well as the serrated and now they both open up one handed still alittle pressure but definitely better than before. It is wild how close it is to my wave.

[@Bob-TheTechGuy]

Thanks for the look!

[@mooseman6226]

Good you addressed the bits. Last week I dropped my T20/T25-bit from 7 meters into thick and high grass. Guess I'll never use my Surge on such screws again...

[@maxlvledc]

This is what I'm talking about! And a few months ago the bit kits were out of stock.

[@felinebline7154]

My wally multi force is a monster. Best I've ever owned.

[@tikofthetoka5650]

Dell took their production to China. China said thanks for the blueprint, we made Lenovo, see ya later. Leatherman is sending more stuff to China. I have a wave plus and a Biburry. My hand prefers the Biburry all day long . But my brain prefers USA made.

[@maxlvledc]

It's super hard decision..but my conscience is clear, I give Leatherman a ton of money annually

[@dlajb]

It's not that simple either... Lenovo also bought the whole personal computers and printers division of IBM...

[@martinmather2495]

The tools maybe similar but what about material quality. Get them wet and leave them outside, drop them in a bucket of water and leave them for a week. Drop them off of a ladder to see how they hold up or bend. Dig a hole and bury them for a week. That would be the true longevity test and test of materials.

[@maxlvledc]

Agreed, but it's a time issue (and money to a lesser extent) I prefer to make ppl aware first and collect data from multiple sources

[@PhilipStephan]

However, for a person that does an occasional home fix or minor task. The way to go for people like me that don't have a lot of money to throw down for the name brand, would be the clone. I really think it would last for an occasional fixer upper person, but if it didn't still inexpensive enough to purchase another one. My two cents worth. Have a good day. Cheers. 😊

[@stemill1569]

when looking at the price of the cheap ones. It's an easy question: How often you can replace them until you have the price of a Leatherman? You get to 6 or 7 pieces. If you can expect the 7 to hold for 25 years then you are good. Saying that because all I heard, Leatherman is replacing pieces that get damaged. So it's a bit if a mentality thing. Do you want your tool to be replaced or doesn't matter. when the cheap one is damaged...it's easy to have just another one around and replace it. As they are cheap on prices. And then there is what do you need. I just say the Leatherman Wave has a quite useless tool in it. The wide slit driver is a waste of space. Here I can only say, the Victorinox Spirit has some amazing tools on it. If the Leatherman wide metal plate 😂would have more tools on it, it would be much better. And then there is the weight. The Leatherman Wave+ isn't that heavy. I can carry it in my pocket without thinking something is pulling my pants down. Those clones on the other side are as heavy as a Leatherman Multitool 300. And another important question for me is, how long do they hold. Will they wear out in the first month or will they do a year of moderate work? How much does the warranty upgrade cost? I forgot how amazon is calculating that thing. If it's based on the buying prince, you are safe. But on the other side...it's just 30 bucks. Buy 3 when they are reduced and you can easily replace a damaged tool😅 And the last I come up with...your own bank account. If the Leatherman gives you stomachache...buy the cheap one. It won't be hurting you when loosing, getting stolen or when you destroy it.

[@rsafree1139]

I’m kinda losing interest at the 10 minute mark, but a couple advantages come to mind for the wave: Ability to swap an s30v blade into Deep ride pocket clip Black pocket clip option Warranty Pride of ownership Lighter/smaller (I know you mentioned that) Available accessories Sheath quality Maybe some of these were addressed after 10 minutes, but to me these things are worth an extra $75 for something I’m gonna use daily for years on end. Now if you’re just looking for a stocking stuffer for someone that’ll likely throw it in a junk drawer and use it twice a year, the clones may be a better option

[@maxlvledc]

Right on! I would agree 100% that it's not a direct wave replacement..however, imo this is a good gateway into carrying one and usually results in an eventual upgrade.

[@rsafree1139]

@@maxlvledc I could see that as well

[@AtomicBleach]

Welp I'm returning mine for a reason I wouldn't have thought of. After hours of trying to figure out why my knife blade was so darn hard to open I used a polishing wheel on the detent and the washer thinking maybe something was catching, then decided to try swapping the serrated blade with the standard blade thinking maybe something was wrong with the detent/locking mech, was surprised to find the blade was still extremely hard to open even on the opposite side. Only thing I can think of is the detent hole is misaligned. At this point should I just return it and get a multi-force since I want a bit extender. My main concern is the plier support on the multi-force. I've broken other pliers that use similar mechanisms.

[@randyfleming3004]

Great video and great points you make.. 👍👍👍👍👍

[@SeeksWomderNWisdom]

Wondering why the more local available Harbor Freight, Gordon (59617) clone version wasn't evaluated?

[@maxlvledc]

Didn't exist when video was made

[@MJSeo13]

I have to say, I think it's more efficient to use these 'fake' multitools. It is easy to afford, no need to worry about breaking and most of all it is cheap. Seriously, if you break off multitools while doing some work you should just carry toolbox around, not buying multitools. Also I have Surge, it seems overkill in my all time jobs.. might have those things.

[@Blake1156]

The Leatherman Wingman has superior scissors (with precision) than nearly any other leatherman (especially for the price). They're also outside accessible and bigger.

[@anthonytucker1175]

Can these cheaper clones use some of the leatherman mods ?

[@starkparker16]

Nobody tests edc scissors like Maxlvledc.

[@maxlvledc]

Trying 😅

[@nsptyty9617]

There's no need to freak out just because some off-brand Chinese company made a clone of a tool that's actually descent with some improvements, one other major improvement they could've done is eliminated the "pinch point" of the plier portion to avoid nasty blisters regarding the warranty chances are they will not send you replacement tool, they'll issue a refund and because of the rapid inflation the next similar tool you purchase will likely cost more then the previous.

[@MrCaptaincoffee]

i still don't understand the love of a bit driver on a plyer multitool. sure you have many options to use it but they all still suck because 1. the arm is not long enough to avoid the tool hitting something preventing you from doing a full 360 turn on anything 2. it's insanely uncomfortable to open the tool so only one leg of the tool is out while you hold the other leg with the pliers to use the short bit driver so you can avoid the problem of issue number 1. and number three is leatherman specific. you still only have proprietary bits to choose from so if you ever lose one you have to buy an entire set to replace it. using the phillips head or flat head on my plyer multitool is always a pain for the first 2 reasons. a dedicated bit driver is way better in my opinion and a very nice compliment to a plyer multitool. I use the leatherman ratchet attachment on my dedicated bit driver.

[@PreparedWolf34]

Good backup for your car. If someone breaks in and takes it, you’re only out $27.

[@PreparedWolf34]

@@acidlab9586 I was speaking of being stolen

[@jonathanvasquez9604]

Link for the Bibury pls. Tnx

[@darreldudley8432]

I broke my 15 year old Gerber Legend 800 recently, times are tight so got a Bibury 922.7848. The only thing I really miss is it doesn't have sprung pliers like the Gerber, so I would like to know what other multi tools have sprung pliers?

[@xrbperformance4290]

Is the black one a finish on the steel or is it painted?

[@maxlvledc]

Painted

[@medic58]

Thank you so very much for your reviews. Well done I will buy one and try. Always looking for a good deal. God bless.

[@guitarfreakozzy]

are the frames close enough between the wave and the flissa that you can use mods for the wave,on the flissa? theres a few mods for the wave i kinda like that i wouldnt mind tossing on the flissa.

[@sh4969]

The goat is better it's modular you can take blades off and saws so you don't get it confiscated at the airport when boarding a plane, you can put blades back on when you get home. Another one I like is the Roxon S801S Strom Multitool Pliers-Outdoor Multi Tool.

[@zuxbg9688]

Clone: Wider and longer saw tooth are optimized for green wood, opposite for dry wood. It has 1/4 bit driver but those are not standard bits unless modified. Leatherman's proprietary 2.5D bits are clever solution - tool handle is thinner and bits occupy less space in the pouch (at the cost of non-standard bits).

[@mrdlewis22]

You can tell the leatherman serated blade by feel, as the top is ridged compared to the flat blade

[@maxlvledc]

Hmm. I didn't check if that was true with the clone...thanks for reminding me.

[@tikofthetoka5650]

A file will take care of that

[@shaunbromley8445]

Can’t find the Flissa for sale anywhere available for the U.K. 🙁

[@maxlvledc]

Check ali express for similar design. Swisstech has one similar.

[@craigmooring2091]

See, one question I would want answered is, "How well does the full hex bit driver work with the proprietary Leatherman bits?", because I sure as HELL am not going to carry around 20 double-ended full hex bits on my belt. Neither do I have a hint of a desire for something as thick as the Wave (or even the original PST) to have a pocket clip on it because something that thick is going to impede access to the things I carry IN my pockets, and I already have a folding knife there, anyway.

[@maxlvledc]

you need to install a magnet..but it works "ok" not great.

[@Boder49]

Would you reccomend the Flissa or the Gerber Suspension NXT? Im deciding between two as they are the same price

[@AtomicBleach]

Do you know of anywhere that sells the multiforce bit extension by itself? Since the bit holder is non- magnetic a standard bit extension just falls off. So far I've only found one company that looks like it may sell a bit extension that is compatible, but I've yet to test it. The Chapman MFG E2 2" Extension looks like it may work, but if there's a option on amazon I'd rather go that way.

[@maxlvledc]

Sadly no

[@AtomicBleach]

@@maxlvledc NewZona Rides posted a video about adding magnets to his multiforce driver. That seemed to make it much more versatile. I think I'll get the same magnets he used and just use a standard 2" bit extension with wiha double sided bits. Wiha also has a 1/4" to 4mm bit adapter that I may try out. I need small torx and a tweaker flathead daily.

[@TedTheTree]

I always thought they should drop the can opener, I've had a Wave nearly 10 years & never used that bloody thing, cans have ring pulls now anyways, just a thort; ?

[@maxlvledc]

I also use it for package opener

[@Po_goes_brrr]

It looks like both Ozark trail and these clones rounded the thumb holes in the knife blades, something I had to do my self on my Leatherman, which is quite disappointing Leatherman would leave a sharp edge on a $100+ tool yet these sub 40 or 30 dollar tools have rounded thumb holes.

[@PBenetton]

Hey man. I have a XIAOMI HuoHou K30, wich is one of these Wave clones. Its great quality overall but las weekend I was removing some bolts on an old tractor using the pliers (the "regular" portion of the pliers) and the first came out ok, the second was stiffer and the pliers broke. Not the pliers per se, but the locking part on the the handles. The bit on the handle that actually pushes each side of the pliers. One of the sides cracked and broke and now the pliers dont close all the way. The point is, I'm not shure if it was a QC problem with my unit, or if its a project limitation. Does a LM Wave have that much beter steel and project that it wouldn't brake? Is it worth more? I can record a short video showing what happened if you are interested im performing a test with your chineses and the LM Wave to determine if the wave can whitstand more gripping force. By the way, I didn't use a huge amount of force, I did grip the pliers with firm hand but I would expect the pliers to "skip" the bolt, and not grip it and crack the frame. I have to buy a new multitool, and have to decide if I'll get another chinese (this time I'm considering the Daicamping DL1) or get the LM Wave+ for 4 times the price. Does the wave have beter construction and steel to perform better on the harder uses? Please let me know if you are willing to test that. Thanks

[@teamgmotorsports]

Where I work, I both need and feel left out as I need a good multi tool with no blades that I could use at work. I have a Leatherman wave and love it. So I was considering buying another and “cutting off” the blades so I could carry it at work and still have the best multi tool out there, just bladeless. But I have been having issues coming to terms with basically destroying a $100 tool to get what I need for work:( This being such a close clone, I think I’m going to try it with this and see how it works out. Destroying a $30 cheap Chinese knock-off doesn’t bother me in the slightest! That all said, I wish Leatherman would offer everything they make from the wave sized tools and up with a bladeless option!

[@folksurvival]

Gerber have a bladeless multi-tool.

[@BassMaster.454]

Look at the blade less rebar. It has a solid 3d Philip's several flat heads, scissors, saw, file, and your other usual tools. It is wave sized too, plus a little cheaper. You cam also get a bit adapter for it

[@monkeylife2318]

I suppose we cannot call it "counterfeit" as they don't copy the logo and the brand but at least Leatherman should intend action against the model as it's too similar. Plus, if you are proud of your country you should protect and defend your homeland industries. Don't buy cheap chinese. Don't kill your industry or you will depend on other country for everything. As a custom officer here in France, I fight against counterfeit. 🔧And I'm the proud owner of one OHT, one Surge black oxyde version full kit, 2 micra, one free T2. ( Despite our wonderfull knife industry we are not be able to produce a decent french multitool. .....). I like your channel by the way 👍 greetings from France.

[@maxlvledc]

I'm NOT proud of how Leatherman has been run since Tim stepped down, over and over again I see them making decisions that are more about profits and less about legacy and integrity. Leatherman doesn't even go to conventions anymore so there is no public face either. I want Leatherman to remain, but it can't do that trying to take advantage of their customers trust. They do that by creating connections. If this video get them to step up and do something...then it was a success.

[@11523007]

What are your thoughts on this vs. Ozark Trail Multiforce? Seems like Ozark is 8cr13 blade and this is 2/3cr13. (Same manufacturer listed for several Mossy Oaks where they answer what steel is used) Ozark with tax is about $50 and this is about $30. Ozark worth the extra 20 in fit an finish? Does this feel as beefy as the Multiforce (it'll live in the car as a backup)?

[@maxlvledc]

Imo, I'm still a fan of the multiforce. It has a clip, a bit extender, and the blades are on the opposite side (no hand pinch)

[@viniciusreis2211]

swisstech 18 in 1 is produced by the same OEM as the ozark trail and has all tools in 5cr15MOV steel. I think this combination is more balanced for the whole tool. Greetings from Brazil! Sorry for my bad English, I use google translator.

[@edwardfletcher7790]

Tim Leatherman must be so pissed ! That full size bit driver settles it for me. It's a no brainer. In Australia, the Wave + is US$119 and the bit kit costs more than this whole tool !

[@TheCige]

I'm still a fan of the smaller Leatherman bits, just because I'm able to carry a lot more of them at one time, but you are correct about the price difference, especially overseas.

[@1konaboi808]

Will the leatherman cutters fit the flissa?

[@maxlvledc]

Nope

[@frankieshouse-505]

Oh, I think you should also get a rocks on the scissors is no comparison to either Leatherman nor Byberry

[@foxwood67]

Way late to the party here. The biggest complaint of my wave+ is those bits. After stripping my fist Phillips I tossed in the trash. I now use the extender with quality Wiha bits.

[@thedude1292]

Id love a full 3D hex bit driver in my wave but spending 50 bucks for the shapeways 3D printed version is just too much. You did mention the Bibury and Flissa have a wider frame so thier 3D bit driver wont fit the wave right? How about a refit? Are the pivots the same size as leathermans?

[@maxlvledc]

They will work in a rebar frame...I tested that.

[@thedude1292]

@@maxlvledc thanks for the answer mate. Maybe i get a bibury when i find a good deal to play around and test myself. If the pivots match it should be possible to file/grind of the sides of the full size bit driver to fit into the Wave frame assuming the locking mechanism for the tool matches, it could be a huge update to the Wave. The shapeways bit driver proofs you can fit a full size bit driver into a wave, its just way to expensive for a solid option imo. Keep up the good work!

[@thedude1292]

@@maxlvledc Update: I got a Bibury a while ago and i been playing around with it, with some file work i managed to fit the 3D bit holder into my wave. It is a tight fit but works pretty good. Im pretty happy with it but time will tell how good its gonna hold up.

[@maxlvledc]

@@thedude1292 cool!

[@oncomics1128]

How do the wave clones compare to the Roxon?

[@maxlvledc]

hmm, tough call, because the roxon has great design..but possibly worse materials...If I could have one my heart says go with the updated Bibury for $30.

[@Gman1024]

Thank you so much for doing these tests. The Bibury and Flissa are on sale right now. Based on all your testing and usage, is the bibury worth the increased price? Which would you buy between the bibury vs flissa? So funny how they all have differences in the MSRP pricing, and say there's more pieces, yet all have the same amount of items in it.

[@maxlvledc]

Flissa would be my choice

[@Gman1024]

@@maxlvledc, thank you for your reply. I was going to not beat around the bush and get the wave, but the proprietary bits turns me off a bit.

[@Gman1024]

No pun intended, but realized it and laughed to myself, haha.

[@jasondudchock6936]

Do you have a video on adding a magnet to your bit driver's?

[@maxlvledc]

Hmm, no...but I should..

[@jasondudchock6936]

@@maxlvledc I didn't search hard but I don't think anyone else does. It would be appreciated.

[@aurorasequential]

Does the flissa version fit wave kydex holsters?

[@maxlvledc]

No, it's thicker and slightly different shape

[@larrya197140]

Hey great review! They have the Bibury for 34.00 with a pocket clip and the Flissa for 23.00 what would you choose between the two?

[@maxlvledc]

Hmm, bibury honestly

[@ixlr8t]

They are 30.00for Bibury and 27.00 for the Flissa as of 3/23/22

[@rjs323]

Does the leatherman pocket clip fit on the flissa?

[@maxlvledc]

No, but the nite ize hip Clip is an easy add

[@rjs323]

@@maxlvledc thanks

[@kovalenkoyegor9796]

I wonder if these clones parts are compatible with each other and or the original Leatherman and vice versa. I have a Leatherman which i used and abused through out several years, i lost the precision bit, the saw and the serrated knife do not open as good as they used to and the flathead screwdriver broke off. I kind of want to buy one of these clones and replace some tools i don't need with the Leathermans. I might switch the bottle opener/can opener for something more useful, like a broken scissor or something else for boring purpose. Anyway. Jut wanted to share en Idea. Thenk you for the informative video.

[@frankieshouse-505]

What I was trying to say is I find the roxon multi tool is a lot better then the leather man especially the scissors. You should try to compare that as well.

[@dwaynemeroin3101]

Innovation at Leatherman is creeping to a halt. They probably have old timers there waiting for retirement that just clock in to do the job and go home. I know factory work. They may need some fresh blood in the mix to stay competitive.

[@Bucodellozono]

Didn't have any luck with these Chinese multitool... Tried a bibury months ago, worst pliers ever, wouldn't cut any cable at all, the jaws would always lock and only half cut it. Also horrible edge on the straight blade. Scissors also bad, like ur piece. Returned it. Just received a swiss tech, which is basically a flissa, and some problems were solved others for worse. The pliers now cut Ethernet cables well, still not the same as a surge (always perfect cuts), but acceptable (most of the times it only fails to cut the nylon strand withing the cable). Huge improvement here. Scissors are better, but again not as good as a surge. The problem is the frame... On the side of the straight blade is not properly folded and is more than 1mm wider than the other side. It's also impossible to tighten the screw more (maybe the screw was cut too long). The problem with this is that the blade gets stuck in mine too, i need to move out of the way the end "cap" and only then i can extract the blade. So no 1 hand operation (very important for me). There are occasions when o don't want to use the surge, like when it can get dirty. But again no luck... Mailed the seller to see if they can exchange mine (won't buy again as it was 27€ days ago and it's 33€ now.

[@maxlvledc]

Good info! Thanks

[@auginater4200]

I'm so mad at myself for losing my leatherman wave+. It was really becoming an extension of my body. I'm over here looking at cheap substitutes but they're just not the same. I swear i can't have anything nice 😭

[@lavalianyuckstersthorazine2123]

If the next generation of the Leatherman Wave the 3.0 version it should be put on the same type of frame as that's the Leatherman free

[@Rick-fz7tt]

If you were to choose between leatherman rebar or bond and maybe power point which is smaller for everyday edc carry? Great review by the way.

[@maxlvledc]

Rebar all day, but bond is actually good as well.

[@toolinedc]

Even tho i have my VPN in USA instead of canada, each of your links says that they are currently not available 😔 wanted to try out one just by curiousty !