I finally ordered a Wave Alpha and it just arrived today. Honestly, this model just did not do anything for me. I think the biggest issue with me is that of perceived value. It hurts that this model cost more thn a Charge TTi with all the extras you got with that model. Titanium scales, a sheath, pocket clip and lanyard loop, and a bit set. All of that for less than this Wave Alpha. Frankly I find it shocking that not even a way to carry it is provided. IO would think a pocket clip or a sheath would have come with it, but those are extras. Extras that are not cheap either.
So what do you get for the price? As I am writing this, the Alpha comes in at just under $300 Canadian. The biggest take are the knife blade , handle material, and the increase in size of the scissors. The included blade is made from MagnaCut stainless steel.
MagnaCut according to this AI gathered info is...
CPM MagnaCut is a revolutionary powder metallurgy stainless steel designed by Larrin Thomas, setting a new benchmark for knife steel by providing an unmatched balance of extreme toughness, high corrosion resistance, and excellent edge retention. Specifically engineered for cutlery, it solves traditional tradeoffs, making it ideal for both rugged survival knives and high-end EDC folders.
Key Properties and Benefits: Ultimate Toughness: MagnaCut offers incredible resistance to chipping, cracking, or rolling, often compared to non-stainless tool steels like CPM-4V.High Corrosion Resistance: It boasts superior corrosion resistance suitable for wet or salsmurfer environments, surpassing many other high-hardness steels.
Edge Retention: It holds a fine edge for a long time, balancing wear resistance with the ability to sharpen relatively easily compared to other high-performance steels.
Powder Metallurgy Structure: The elimination of large chromium carbides in its heat-treated microstructure allows for superior strength and toughness.
Wide Application: Used by major brands like Leatherman, Buck Knives, and Hogue Knives for varied applications.
Why It's Popular: MagnaCut is regarded by many as the best all-around knife steel currently available, specifically tailored to avoid the typical compromises between toughness and corrosion resistance. It is often used in premium knives because it delivers high-end performance without sacrificing durability.
That sounds all great but you pay a premium for this that I really do not need. Honestly I really like the Stainless steel that Victorinox uses because it is easy to sharpen. I guess I am just not the target market for this high end steel. I grumble about MagnaCuts inclusion on the other Leatherman models as it pushes up the price.
G10 is always a nice handle material. I enjoy the texture and best of all, it won't freeze you hands in winter unlike stainless steel. The colours are all nice. I decided the orange Canyonland was the nicest, but the Obsidian and Cascadia colours are equally fetching.
The larger scissors are nice but I never had issues with the smaller pair that came on the older Wave models. A negative on the larger pair found on the Alpha is the lack of a flat surface for your finger during use. This is present on the smaller scissors of the older models...and it does make a difference in user comfort.
The box is interesting, and large. Considering you only get the tool, it makes me wonder why the packaging is so large. Who knew the older yellow and black boxes offered just as much of a premium experience with less waste.
PXL_20260401_202058171A by
Chako, on Flickr
The included instructions are easy to understand.
PXL_20260401_202128092A by
Chako, on Flickr
This is when you realize the box could have been a whole lot smaller.
PXL_20260401_202153755A by
Chako, on Flickr
Canyonland is a nice burnt orange.
PXL_20260401_202227476A by
Chako, on Flickr
The model number is now located on the side of the tool stamped into the metal.
PXL_20260401_202255119A by
Chako, on Flickr
PXL_20260401_202315072A by
Chako, on Flickr
It has much the same tool loadout as a Wave+.
PXL_20260401_202550270A by
Chako, on Flickr
The shape and size of the Wave Alpha is almost the same to the Wave + and the older Wave.
PXL_20260401_203158879A by
Chako, on Flickr
Here is a side by side all tools opened comparison between the Alpha and the Plus.
PXL_20260401_202906871 by
Chako, on Flickr\
The Alpha is just a hair thicker than the stainless Wave models that preceded it.
PXL_20260401_203053541A by
Chako, on Flickr
Not happy that the ruler was expunged from the Alpha. There was room for the markings. The ruler is something I used often. Sorry to see it go.
PXL_20260401_203107057A by
Chako, on Flickr
Bonus shot showing the G10 colour, texture, and design of my copy of the Wave Alpha.
PXL_20260401_203308212A by
Chako, on Flickr
My final thoughts:I don't like the price for starters. I definitely do not like that Leatherman cheapened out by not providing accessories for it. So it feels like you are paying a premium twice to get what was normal expectations not that long ago. I also feel this whole MagnaCut stuff is wasted on me, there was nothing wrong with the old stainless steel blades. It just makes this model more expensive then it needed to be. The scissors are a step backwards over the older design, and the removal of the ruler is criminal to me especially as there is room for it to be there. There are some positives I suppose. The G10 scales are beautiful and really adds to the overall feel of the Alpha. I guess a lot of folks will wax poetic over the MagnaCut blade. I am just not that target audience. Heck I think Victorinox Stainless steel is fantastic.
I just wish Leatherman would add a few extras like what you got with the now discontinued Charge.
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