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Leatherman Arc
- Pros: Premium MagnaCut steel on the main blade for superior performance, Larger, more robust scissors compared to the Wave, Magnetic one-handed deployment for pliers and tools, Improved pry tool, combination bottle/can opener, and an included awl, Retains popular features like swappable bit kit and pocket clip, Included nylon sheath with bonus storage for extra bits and flashlight
- Cons: Slightly less comfortable ergonomics during extended plier use compared to Wave, Nylon sheath can be bulky and may chafe larger waistlines, One-handed opening of some tools can be awkward and requires practice (normal for all multitools), Minor bevel inconsistency on the main blade (but doesn't affect performance), Higher price point than the Wave and other Leatherman models, Not a necessary upgrade if you already own a high-end Leatherman in good condition
Hey folks, Advanced Knife Bro here. If you don’t know anything about me or my YouTube channel, yes, that is my legal name. You’ll be comforted to know I have also been a long-time Leatherman fan. I'm excited to take an in-depth look at their latest multitool, the Leatherman Arc. Yes, that is the sound of all of the fun leaving the room.
In this review, I'll break down the Arc's main features, compare it to classics like the Wave and Charge, and help you decide if it's the right tool for your needs.
So buckle up for the only Leatherman Arc review you’ll ever need.
Key Takeaways
- The Leatherman Arc is like a "turbocharged Wave" with upgraded features and materials.
- MagnaCut steel on the main blade is a huge improvement for edge retention.
- Larger scissors and magnetic one-handed opening are standout features.
- Minor ergonomic tradeoffs compared to the Wave, but not a dealbreaker.
- Best choice for first-time buyers or those upgrading from budget models.
- Evolutionary improvement, not a must-buy if you already own a high-end Leatherman.
My Leatherman Journey
My weird “love affair” with Leatherman started way back in 2001 with the Pocket Survival Tool (PST), which I used for film school projects. Film School was integral in preparing me for a character-building 25-year student loan repayment, holding down various $8/hour jobs in the real world, and applying the knowledge I learned in film school to being a D-class Youtuber that I don't tell anyone about in real life.
In addition to student loan debt I've amassed quite the collection: including multiple Waves, a Crunch, Super Tool 300, OHT, various Juice models, Micra, Skeletool, Core, PST 2, Sideclip, Flair, Sidekick, Rebar, Raptor, and even the premium Charge+ TTi.
After that stellar introduction, you must be ready for me to get into the tool that the internet world is abuzz over. It seems they combined the popular Leatherman Wave with the magnet technology of…magnets, found in the free series, and put a higher-end blade as a main knife.
But the real question you’re all foaming at the mouth for is, is it any good? Is foaming at the mouth an overstatement?
The Arc vs. The Wave
The Wave has long been a go-to recommendation for its versatile toolset and manageable size. So how does the Arc stack up in this Leatherman Arc review?
Key differences:
- Arc drops the serrated knife for larger scissors (smart move)
- Upgraded MagnaCut steel on main blade (huge improvement)
- New magnetic one-handed opening for pliers and tools (handy in a pinch)
- Slightly tweaked tool designs (saw, file, openers)
- Addition of an awl.
Honestly, the Arc feels like a turbocharged Wave. If you've been eyeing the Wave, I'd say go straight for the Arc if you have the cash. The MagnaCut blade, broken in pliers, and it’s all open from the outside toolset is worth it.
First up on our comparison is the specs themselves. Just below this table, you’ll find a list of tools to help you compare them even more.
Tool Comparison Breakdown: Leatherman Arc vs Leatherman Wave+
| Tool | Leatherman Arc | Leatherman Wave+ |
|---|---|---|
| Needlenose Pliers | ✔ | ✔ |
| Regular Pliers | ✔ | ✔ |
| Large Bit Driver | ✔ | ✔ |
| Diamond-coated File | ✔ | ✔ |
| Small Bit Driver | ✔ | ✔ |
| Wood/Metal File | ✔ | ✔ |
| Premium Replaceable Wire Cutters | ✔ | ✔ |
| Premium Replaceable Hard-wire Cutters | ✔ | ✔ |
| Bottle Opener | ✔ | ✔ |
| Can Opener | ✔ | ✔ |
| Spring-action Scissors | ✔ | ✔ |
| Saw | ✔ | ✔ |
| Wire Stripper | ✔ | ✔ |
| Electrical Crimper | ✔ | ✔ |
| Awl | ✔ | ✘ |
| Impact Surface | ✔ | ✘ |
| Large Screwdriver | ✔ | ✘ |
| Edge File | ✔ | ✘ |
| Pry Tool | ✔ | ✘ |
| MagnaCut Knife Blade | ✔ | ✘ |
| Medium Screwdriver | ✘ | ✔ |
| Ruler (8 in/19 cm) | ✘ | ✔ |
| 420HC Knife | ✘ | ✔ |
| 420HC Serrated Knife | ✘ | ✔ |
A Closer Look at the Tools
Let's break down the Arc's toolset in this Leatherman Arc review:
Main Blade
- Premium MagnaCut steel for incredible edge retention
- Smooth one-handed opening and closing
- Slight bevel inconsistency, but it's a workhorse, not a safe queen (can multi-tools be safe queens?)
Pliers
- Easy one-handed deployment thanks to magnets
- Replaceable wire cutters like Wave+
- Not spring-loaded, but very capable
Scissors
- Larger and beefier than Wave's
- Slightly less pointy tip
- Definite upgrade in my book
File, Saw, and Awl
- Diamond + standard file like the Wave
- Saw is similar with easier one-handed use
- Improved pry tool/flathead
- Combination bottle+can opener
- New awl addition (use it, abuse it or ignore it)
Screwdriver + Bit Kit
- Kept the swappable bits (huge plus)
- Includes usual suspects: large+small flathead and Phillips
- Access requires some juggling, but very handy
Ergonomics
Now, let's talk comfort. The Wave's got those sweet, rounded handles that feel like a warm hug for your hands during those marathon plier sessions. Those bolts and nuts will not stand a chance.
The Arc? Not quite as cozy. On the Arc, those bits can start to feel a bit awkward when you're really cranking down on something. They're not sharp, per se, but they're not exactly a day at the spa for your palms, either.
The “Free tech” comes at a price, and that price is a few more gaps and thin metal bits that might make your mitts feel a bit “owie” after a while. It's not a dealbreaker, but it's worth noting.
Now, don't get me wrong, if you're using pliers all day, every day, you should probably just invest in a good set of standalone pliers.
So, what's the verdict on the ergonomics front? The Wave takes the cake, but the Arc is no slouch. It's just a matter of personal preference and how much time you spend cranking and twisting with your multitool on the daily.
Pocket Clip and Sheath
Alright, let's talk pocket clips and sheaths. The Leatherman Arc comes equipped out of the box with a pocket clip. If you're not a fan of the included nylon sheath, that pocket clip comes in handy to tuck into the high-rised kirklands.
Now, I know what you're thinking: "But Advanced Knife Bro, what's wrong with the nylon sheath? I think along with my phone on my belt, some white new balances, a Leatherman sheath would tie it all together?” Well let me explain, dad. Leatherman's been getting a bit carried away with their sheath designs lately, and the Arc's nylon number is a prime example. It's built like a tank, which is great for durability, but not so great for comfort. It's just a bit too bulky for my taste, and I’d rather not have my multitool doubling as a fanny pack.
You see, the Arc's sheath rides a bit higher on the belt than I'd like. It's not quite a high-rise sheath, but it's definitely not a dangler either. And if you're packing a bit of extra padding around the midsection like yours truly, that sheath can start to chafe in all the right places.
Now, let's take a moment to pour out a warm Keystone for the dearly departed leather sheaths of Leatherman’s past. They were compact and were only big enough for the tool. They were fine on the belt camping, or at Costco in the toilet paper aisle.
But times change, and so do Leatherman's sheath designs. Now a counterpoint: Arc's nylon sheath may not be the sleek, streamlined masterpiece of yore, but it's definitely has some plusses. For one, it's got a nice, secure locking mechanism that keeps your Arc snug. No more worrying about your precious falling out if you're drunk cleaning the gutters on the ladder.
And let's not forget about the bonus storage! The Arc's sheath has a handy little spot for your bit kit, so you can always have your favorite bits on hand. And if that wasn't enough, there's even a slot for a flashlight. There is a ton of room for activities!
Now, let's take a moment to pour one out for the dearly departed leather sheaths of Leatherman’s past. Oh, how I miss those compact, low-profile pouches that hugged your hip like a long-lost lover! The Wave's leather sheath was a thing of beauty, and don't even get me started on the PST's sheath. That thing was like a second skin, I tell ya.
But times change, and so do Leatherman's sheath designs. The Arc's nylon sheath may not be the sleek, streamlined masterpiece of yesteryear, but it's still got some tricks up its sleeve. For one, it's got a nice, secure locking mechanism that keeps your Arc snug. No more worrying about your precious multitool falling out and clattering to the ground like a drunk on a bender.
And let's not forget about the bonus storage! The Arc's sheath has a handy little spot for your bit kit, so you can always have your favorite bits on hand. And if that wasn't enough, there's even a slot for a flashlight. Because why not, right? It's the sheath version of a Swiss Army knife!
But fear not, my fellow multitool enthusiasts! The Arc's pocket clip is here to save the day. If you're not feeling the sheath, just slap that pocket clip on and slide your Arc right into your pocket. It's like a deep-carry clip for your multitool, and it's a real game-changer.
Video Review
Final Thoughts
So, is the Leatherman Arc the new multitool king? If you're choosing between it and the Wave, I say go with the Arc. The MagnaCut blade, larger scissors, magnetic deployment, and other small improvements far outweigh the minor tradeoffs. Plus Leatherman’s 25 year warranty covers you if you break anything.
However, if you and your trusty Wave, the larger Surge, the Charge, or other Leatherman tools are still going strong, this isn't a must-buy. The Arc is an evolution, not a revolution. But for first-time buyers or folks looking to upgrade from budget models, the Arc is the clear choice based upon my musings in my Leatherman Arc review.
