Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.
Leatherman Wave Alpha comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.5 vs 4.8). The gap is mostly about buyers wanting the latest Leatherman with premium steel — read the strengths below before deciding.
The Armbar Drive is the screwdriver pick — Gerber's compact multi-tool with spring-loaded driver.
The Wave Alpha is the premium pick — Leatherman's 2025 refresh with MagnaCut steel and G10 scales.
Spring-loaded driver. Compact. Fewer tools.
Premium current-generation update. MagnaCut steel. G10 scales.
| Spec | Gerber Armbar Drive | Leatherman Wave Alpha |
|---|---|---|
| Tools | 7 | — |
| Feature | Spring-loaded driver | — |
| Weight | 2.9 oz | — |
| Brand | Gerber | Leatherman |
| Steel | — | MagnaCut |
| Handles | — | G10 |
| Updates | — | 2025 |