I just became a Wave owner- and I don't know Waves

ironraven · **on:** October 12, 2011, 02:22:20 AM

Last weekend was the last of the flea market for the year. I was tempted to NOT go, becuase I hadn't seen any decent multitools nor any SAKs other than beat to hell classics one guy was asking $8 each for. But... something said go. And take cash.

The last stall was a hodge podge, lots of bits, all small, many broken or rusty or that sucked when they were new. But in a case of mismatched cufflinks, old watch bands and disco chains, I spotted two things. One was a Vic Pocket Pal- good shape, but not interested in those weird little mutants. And a Wave, with a $30 sticker on it. Ok...

Check the blades- they got some gunk on them, and I haven't cleaned it yet which is why no photos at the moment. The pliers are ok, but they've had some torque. And I opened it up to check the tools. And looked for the bit drivers. There is a pair of scissors in there. And the can/bottle opener of dubious design. And the big straight driver, and two smaller ones, and a #2 phillips.

So I pointed out that it dirty. And this was the last day. And less than hour until the market closed. And got the price lowered to $20. I smiled, the guy selling smiled, he got Mr Jackson, I got Mr Wave.

Obviously it is an early Wave, but I don't know them very well. How old is it based on this description? Did I do good with my bargaining?

Even if the pliers are loosey-goosey, I don't think I'm going to send it to Leatherman to get them fixed. This one will be part of my carry rotation or in the case if it's rare enough, but I like this real drivers configuration.

Mr. Whippy · **Reply #1 on:** October 12, 2011, 02:52:59 AM

Sounds like an old, old Wave (pre-bit driver version). Smaller than the current Wave. Some prefer it, some (*ahem* Benner) don't.

Nice find!

(btw, if you were to send it in, it's doubtful you'd get an old, old Wave back)

genevabuck · **Reply #2 on:** October 12, 2011, 02:54:20 AM

All of the original Waves are pretty much the same, regardless of year. Not sure if they will warantee loose pliers. If they do, you will be sent a new style Wave. BTW, I have about every model and still love my original Wave. It won't let you down.

Sean · **Reply #3 on:** October 12, 2011, 03:01:52 AM

Hey,good score on your find. Always nice to get a good deal which you did. I just acquired a
old wave in excellent condition and I like it as well if not more than my charge's.

ironraven · **Reply #4 on:** October 12, 2011, 03:17:59 AM

OK, so I'm NOT loosing my mind! I thought it seemed smaller than the other Wave's I've seen. It is a nice size, feel good in the hand, but the blades make me a little nervous in one handed mode- don't know why, I've used one handed liner locks since the late 80s and the old Gutman Mouse, but they just feel like they want to take your fingerprints off.

Crouton · **Reply #5 on:** October 12, 2011, 03:28:28 AM

A $20 Wave is a great deal. Nice find.

Styerman · **Reply #6 on:** October 12, 2011, 04:35:56 AM

I prefer the Old Skool Wave , my most carried multi . I gifted several of them , all are still going strong .

Chris

Mercury · **Reply #7 on:** October 13, 2011, 08:13:06 AM

Quote from: ironraven on October 12, 2011, 03:17:59 AM

OK, so I'm NOT loosing my mind! I thought it seemed smaller than the other Wave's I've seen. It is a nice size, feel good in the hand, but the blades make me a little nervous in one handed mode- don't know why, I've used one handed liner locks since the late 80s and the old Gutman Mouse, but they just feel like they want to take your fingerprints off.

Great find!

As far as cutting yourself, I carried an old wave for a while and never had any issues.

Zed · **Reply #8 on:** October 13, 2011, 09:09:31 AM

does it say leatherman U.S.A on the pliers as this was on the earlyer waves i think,

Ashley · **Reply #9 on:** October 13, 2011, 04:31:36 PM

Sounds like a pretty good find imho.

airballrad · **Reply #10 on:** October 19, 2011, 08:51:09 PM

Missed this thread somehow...

Congrats on the find, IR. If you want to date it more conclusively, you can look under the blade in the handle to see the Month/Year the handles were stamped. My old skool Wave is from 0500, I believe. That is, May 2000.

Were you to send it in the folks at Leatherman will gladly replace it, but it would almost certainly be the new style with the bit driver rather than the screwdrivers you have now.