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If you’re looking for the best Leatherman for EDC, you’ll probably be forced to decide between one of these arch and this wave alpha. I have both and carry them often, and I have some practical advice on how to choose the right option for you.
| tool | number of devices | weight | Length | price |
| arch | 20 | 8.6 ounces | 4.25 inches | $250 |
| wave alpha | 18 | 8.26 ounces | 4.04 inches | $200 |
If you want the most capacity, easy access to all tools, and one-handed plier opening, buy ARC. To me, it’s worth the extra $50 compared to the Wave Alpha and is still the multi-tool I would recommend for EDC.
If you have a Leatherman and find metal too slippery, the WAVE Alpha’s G10 grips are a step up in traction. I usually carry the Wave Alpha with me during the hot, humid summer months for this very reason. there are aftermarket grips For an ARC worth watching.
wave alpha and this arch You have the tools you’ll need most often: knife, saw, pliers, wire cutters, bottle opener, scissors, and bit driver. But they have different versions of those tools. The Wave Alpha pliers are thin and do not have the Made in USA stamp on them. Wave Alpha has new, bigger scissors. The ARC’s Awl doesn’t have stitching holes, but the Wave Alpha does. Both knives have Magnacut knife blades, but the blade shapes are slightly different. Both knives are fully functional for EDC, and the choice between them depends on personal preference.
comparison of primary equipment
| arch | wave alpha |
| *tongs | *tongs |
| *Replaceable wire cutters | *Replaceable wire cutters |
| bit driver | *bit driver |
| bottle opener | *Bottle Opener/Can Opener |
| micro driver | *Micro Driver |
| Slotted Screw Driver/Pry Tool | *Slotted Screw Driver |
| Scissors | Scissors |
| jigsaw | jigsaw |
| diamond file | diamond file |
| Magnacut Knife Blade | Magnacut Knife Blade |
| awl | awl (with sewing hole) |
| pocket clip | string loop |
| can opener |
move and deployment
The biggest difference between the ARC and the Wave Alpha is that you can access all of the ARC’s tools without having to open up the pliers. The ARC also features free technology for one-handed deployment of pliers and other instruments. The ARC comes with a pocket clip; Wave Alpha doesn’t, but you can Buy one separately for $15. However, the Wave Alpha does feature a lanyard loop.
Recommended Accessories
final thoughts
Both the Wave Alpha and ARC are great additions to your everyday carry, and deciding between the two comes down to priorities. Overall, I would choose ARC, and it is what I carry with me most often. But I’m glad we have options.
