Leatherman Signal vs Wave+ — Best Multi-Tool for Outdoor Emergencies
The Signal and Wave+ are both premium full-size Leatherman tools — but they're designed for different use cases. The Wave+ is the versatile all-rounder; the Signal adds dedicated survival and emergency features that make it the right choice for remote NZ backcountry use.
What the Leatherman Signal Adds
The Signal includes three tools the Wave+ doesn't have:
Fire starter: A ferro rod scraper built into the Signal that produces sparks for emergency fire starting. Practical for trampers who want a built-in backup to their primary fire source.
Emergency whistle: A 100+ decibel whistle built into the handle. In a NZ mountain emergency, an audible signal is often more effective than a visual one in poor visibility. Having the whistle built into your multi-tool rather than on a separate lanyard means it's always with you.
Diamond-coated sharpener: Built-in blade sharpener for field maintenance without carrying a separate stone. Practical on extended trips where blade maintenance matters.
What the Wave+ Does Better
Outside-opening blades: The Wave+ has outside-opening blades (knife and saw accessible without unfolding the handles). The Signal does not have outside-opening blades — all tools require the handles to be unfolded.
Price: The Wave+ (RRP $319.99) is $80 less than the Signal (RRP $399.99). For users who don't specifically need the survival features, the Wave+ is better value.
All-round versatility: The Wave+ has 18 tools; the Signal has 19 (with the whistle, fire starter, and sharpener). For day-to-day use, the Wave+'s outside-opening blades make it more practical for quick access.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose the Signal if:
- You do remote NZ backcountry tramping or hunting where emergency preparedness matters
- You want fire-starting capability built into your kit
- You want an emergency whistle always accessible with your multi-tool
- You're building a lightweight emergency kit and want survival features consolidated
Choose the Wave+ if:
- You want the best general-purpose multi-tool
- Outside-opening blades matter for quick access
- You carry separate emergency gear and don't need it integrated into your multi-tool
- Budget is a consideration
For most NZ trampers, the Wave+ is the right choice. For trampers who go remote and want consolidated survival features, the Signal's additions are genuinely practical.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Leatherman Signal fire starter actually start a fire?
Yes — the ferro rod scraper produces a reliable spark. Combined with proper tinder (dry grass, Vaseline-soaked cotton balls, commercial fire starters), it will start a fire in suitable conditions. Like any ferro rod, it requires practice and suitable tinder — it's not a push-button fire starter. For NZ tramping where tinder may be wet, carry a backup fire method regardless of what's in your multi-tool.
Is the Signal whistle loud enough for NZ mountain rescue?
The Signal's emergency whistle is rated at 100+ decibels — loud enough to be heard at significant distances in clear conditions. For NZ mountain emergencies, a PLB remains the primary emergency communication device. The whistle is a useful backup for short-range signalling to rescue teams who are already in your area.
Does the Signal replace a dedicated survival kit?
No — the Signal adds useful emergency features to your multi-tool, but it doesn't replace a dedicated emergency kit. For NZ backcountry tramping, carry a PLB, first aid kit, emergency bivvy, and fire starting materials regardless of which multi-tool you have. The Signal's features are useful additions, not replacements for proper emergency preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Leatherman Signal and Wave+?
The Wave+ (RRP $319.99) is Leatherman's versatile all-rounder — 18 tools including needlenose pliers, wire cutters, multiple blades, screwdrivers, and scissors. The Signal (RRP $399.99) adds dedicated survival and emergency tools: a fire starter, emergency whistle, and a hammerhead. The Signal is designed for remote and backcountry use; the Wave+ is the everyday outdoor multi-tool.
Is the Leatherman Signal worth the extra cost over the Wave+?
If you spend time in NZ backcountry — tramping, hunting, or remote travel — the Signal's fire starter and emergency whistle are genuinely useful features that could matter in an emergency. For everyday outdoor use and travel, the Wave+ covers everything you need at a lower price.
What tools does the Leatherman Signal have that the Wave+ doesn't?
The Signal includes a ferrocerium fire starter rod, an emergency whistle, and a hammerhead. It omits scissors (which the Wave+ includes) in favour of these survival-oriented tools. If scissors matter to you, the Wave+ is the better pick.
Which Leatherman is better for NZ tramping?
The Signal is the better choice for serious NZ backcountry tramping — the fire starter and whistle are practical emergency additions for remote routes. The Wave+ is excellent for Great Walks and general outdoor use where you're unlikely to need survival-specific tools.
Are Leatherman tools allowed on NZ domestic flights?
No — multi-tools with blades must be checked in, not carried on NZ domestic flights. Pack your Leatherman in checked luggage when flying.
Where can I buy Leatherman Signal and Wave+ in NZ?
Dwights stocks the full Leatherman range including the Signal and Wave+. Browse at /collections/nextool-multi-tools.