Head to Head
Leatherman Wave+ vs Buck 110: Multi-Tool vs Dedicated Knife — Which Should You Carry?
The Leatherman Wave+ and the Buck 110 are both American-made, both carried by millions of people, and both have passionate advocates who say theirs is the only thing worth having. But they solve different problems. Here's an honest look at what each one actually does — and which belongs in your pocket.
Option A
Leatherman Wave+ Multi-Tool
$129.95
Made in Portland, Oregon. 18 tools in your pocket. The one you grab before everything else.
Option B
Buck 110 Folding Hunter Pocket Knife
$64.99
Made in Post Falls, Idaho. The American pocket knife that's been on belt loops since 1964.
Side by Side
| Leatherman Wave+ Multi-Tool | Buck 110 Folding | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.95 | $64.99 |
| Made in USA | Yes — Portland, OR | Yes — Post Falls, ID |
| Primary function | Multi-tool (18 tools) | Dedicated folding knife |
| Blade steel | 420HC | 420HC |
| Blade length | 2.9" | 3.75" |
| Weight | 8.5 oz | 7.2 oz |
| Warranty | 25 years | Forever |
Best for
Leatherman Wave+ Multi-Tool
- ✓Anyone who does regular work where pliers, screwdrivers, and a blade all come up
- ✓Tradespeople, contractors, outdoorsmen who need one tool that handles many jobs
- ✓Travel and situations where you want to minimize what you carry
- ✓Daily carry where versatility matters more than blade length
Best for
Buck 110 Folding Hunter
- ✓Hunters and outdoorsmen who primarily need a cutting tool
- ✓Anyone who already has tools and just needs a reliable belt knife
- ✓People who prefer a longer, more capable blade for field work
- ✓Classic knife guys who want a dedicated cutting tool, not a gadget
The Verdict
These aren't really competing — they do different things. If you spend your days doing tasks where you need pliers as often as a knife — working on equipment, trail work, repairs in the field — the Leatherman Wave+ replaces a toolbox. If you primarily need to cut things — field dress game, cut rope, prep food, open packages — the Buck 110 does it better with a longer blade and dedicated design. The real answer for most people is to carry both: the Leatherman on the belt for work, the Buck in the pocket for cutting. Between the two, the Leatherman has broader everyday utility for most people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a multi-tool better than a knife for everyday carry?
For most people, yes — the Leatherman Wave+ pliers get used almost as often as the blade. But for hunters, outdoorsmen, and anyone whose primary need is cutting, a dedicated knife like the Buck 110 is a better tool for that specific job.
Is the Buck 110 good for everyday carry?
It's on the heavier side for EDC at 7.2 oz, and the lockback requires two hands to close. For everyday carry tasks it works fine. For hiking and hunting it's excellent. For urban EDC where a lighter, slimmer knife is preferred, something like the Benchmade Bugout is a better fit.
What is the Leatherman Wave+ best used for?
Work situations where you need multiple tools without carrying a full toolbox — repairs, field work, trail maintenance, job sites, travel. The 18 tools include pliers, wire cutters, multiple screwdrivers, a file, and two blades.
Can a multi-tool replace a pocket knife?
For everyday cutting tasks, yes. The Wave+ blade is capable of most daily cutting jobs. It can't replace a dedicated hunting knife for field work, but for box-opening, food prep, and general cutting it works fine.
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