Leatherman Wave+ Multi-Tool
Whether you travel light or pack for every season, the chances are that if you holiday in a caravan or motorhome, a small tool kit is either on your packing list or something that lives permanently in your vehicle.
Our entire caravan tool box has now been replaced by a Leatherman Wave+, meaning we can travel lighter, while still having everything we need in a pocket-sized multi tool. Whether we’re just nipping out for the afternoon or setting off on a 6-week road trip, we never leave home without it!
A Tool For Every Occasion
Let’s face it, life isn’t always smooth sailing. Things can go wrong and things can break — Especially for those of us who travel in a leisure vehicle. We’re no strangers to this here at Adventure Wheels, and after tens of thousands of miles travelled, we’ve had our fair share of breakages and failures.
In these instances, our Leatherman has saved our lives (not literally, but you know what I mean) more times than I can remember. From reattaching our caravan bumper when it was accidentally ripped off on a German campsite (oops), to replacing one of our internal water hoses, fixing Karla’s wheelchair and everything in between. It’s fair to say that it’s been a real lifesaver. Even at home, I find myself reaching for it more often than my main toolbox.
Leatherman Wave+ Tools
Now let me get one thing straight… I have NEVER called it a Leatherman. In our household it’s referred to as the “Tool of Many Things”. Why? Because it’s, quite literally, a tool of many things. 18, to be precise (plus a couple of additional bits).
Each individual tool has its use, but my favourites are the following: Knife, file, saw, screwdriver, pliers, wire cutters, glasses screwdriver, and occasionally the built-in ruler. Karla’s favourite will always be the scissors because, and I quote, “They’re just so darn cute!”
Once you get used to handling it, you’ll learn where each tool is situated and using it will become second nature. I quickly became so fluent that I can easily locate and use each implement with one hand, and even with my eyes closed (not that I’ve ever needed to… yet).
Must-Have Accessories For Your Wave+
If the 18 included tools aren’t quite enough, there’s a huge host of accessories that can be added, to further customise your experience. Here are a few that we have found useful:
Ratchet Screwdriver and Bit Kit
For me, the ratchet screwdriver attachment and Leatherman’s compact ‘Bit Kit’ are essential accessories for your multi tool. These make jobs a breeze, and you’ll struggle to find a screw that the bit kit won’t have a piece for.
A Case
From leather to nylon, there are many of these available. This listing comes with a free basic nylon sheath, but I opted for a handy holster case which attaches to a belt and conveniently houses everything together; the tool, bit kit and the ratchet driver.
Multi-Tool Oil
If you want to really take care of your Leatherman Wave+, you should absolutely get some of their multi-tool oil. Its fine-tipped applicator makes it easy to apply, and doing so regularly will ensure your Leatherman stays lubricated and easy to use.
Maintenance Kit
Alongside the oil, a maintenance kit comes in very handy. This is a selection of tools and brushes that can get into the smallest nooks and crannies, all contained in a neat carry case.
Pocket Clip
As you would expect, a pocket clip enables you to clip your Leatherman Wave+ to your pocket, belt or waistband. This is useful if you need to transport it hands-free and gives you quick and easy access to it.
Top Tips For Owning a Leatherman Wave+
Become familiar with it.
By this I mean, learn where every tool is, practice accessing it and you’ll know exactly what you have available when you need it. This not only makes using it quicker, easier and more enjoyable, but it makes it safer too.
Service it regularly.
If, like me, your Leatherman gets used a lot, then I’d highly recommend keeping it in good condition. There’s a saying that if you look after your kit then it will look after you, and this definitely applies here. At least once a month, I’ll thoroughly clean mine using the Maintenance Kit mentioned above, and oil the joints, ensuring the tools operate smoothly and are easy to fold out when you need them.
Pro’s
Compact
High Quality
Ergonomic Design
Great Variety of Tools
25-year Warranty
Con’s
Expensive
In Conclusion
Although the price is high at a first glance, we think it is worth every penny. Not only is the Leatherman Wave+ a useful, convenient tool to have on hand, but it has replaced our entire caravan tool box. It is an incredibly versatile, well-designed tool, built to last a lifetime.
In fact, we love this little gadget so much, and it’s such a significant part of our adventures, that we used it to cut the cake on our wedding day!
Where Can I Buy a Leatherman Wave+ Multi-Tool?
Check out their website for their full range. Alternatively, they have an Amazon store, which retails a great selection of Leatherman products. Click the *buttons below for the products we own and love.
*Please note: There may be Amazon affiliate links within this article. It won’t cost you any extra, but should you choose to make a purchase after clicking a link then we’ll get a few pennies towards our next trip! All of our “Adventure Kit” write-ups express our honest opinions, but what works for us might not work for you, so please do shop around and make sure you’re getting the best item and value for money.
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