Battle of the Multi-Tools

Alright, tool aficionados and fix-it fanatics, gather 'round for the ultimate multi-tool showdown! In one corner, we have the beefed-up bruiser from Gerber, the Center-Drive Plus Multitool! And in the other, the seasoned champion, the ever-reliable Leatherman Wave+! It's a battle of the titans, a clash of the clever contraptions, and we're here to break down every twist, turn, and tiny screwdriver bit!

The Ultimate Tool-Off: Gerber Center-Drive Plus vs. Leatherman Wave+ - A Review for the Resourceful (and Slightly Over-Prepared)

We've seen these two duke it out before, but Gerber has thrown a "Plus" into the mix, promising even more preparedness in your pocket. Does this upgraded Center-Drive have what it takes to dethrone the Wave+, the reigning king of multi-tools? Let's unsheathe the details!

Round 1: The Pliers Predicament

Gerber Center-Drive Plus: Just like its predecessor, the "Plus" proudly boasts Gerber's signature one-handed sliding plier deployment. It's still as slick as a freshly oiled widget and undeniably handy when you're trying to hold a wobbly shelf with one hand and need pliers with the other. That satisfying shick is still there, whispering promises of tackled tasks.

Leatherman Wave+: Still sticking with the two-handed tango for plier deployment. Dependable? Absolutely. As James Bond-esque as the Center-Drive Plus? Not quite. It's like choosing between a classic handshake and a cool secret agent gadget reveal. Both get the job done, but one has a certain je ne sais quoi.

Pros for Gerber: The one-handed plier deployment remains a significant convenience and a cool party trick (for the right kind of party).

Cons for Gerber: The sliding mechanism can contribute to a slightly longer overall length when closed.

Pros for Leatherman: Reliable and sturdy plier deployment.

Cons for Leatherman: Requires two hands, which can be less convenient in certain situations.

Round Winner: Gerber Center-Drive Plus, for that undeniable one-handed flair.

Round 2: The Tool Tournament (Variety and Accessibility)

Gerber Center-Drive Plus: Now, the "Plus" brings some welcome additions to the Center-Drive lineup! You still get the fantastic center-axis screwdriver with the magnetic ¼" hex bit driver, the robust knife blade (often combo), saw, awl, file, and bottle opener (cheers to that!). But the "Plus" often includes spring-loaded scissors, a feature many users missed on the original Center-Drive and a direct answer to the Wave+'s popular snips! External access to the knife and bit driver remains a plus (pun intended!).

Leatherman Wave+: With its impressive roster of 18 tools, the Wave+ still packs a punch in terms of sheer versatility. You get two knife blades, those incredibly useful spring-action scissors, multiple screwdrivers (using Leatherman's proprietary flat bits), files, and more. The external access to four key tools is a major time-saver when you just need a quick cut or slice.

Pros for Gerber: The center-axis screwdriver with standard bit compatibility is still a massive win. The inclusion of spring-loaded scissors in the "Plus" version is a significant upgrade. Good external access for important tools.

Cons for Gerber: Still slightly fewer tools overall compared to the Wave+.

Pros for Leatherman: A vast and well-chosen selection of tools. Excellent external access for frequently used implements. Those spring-action scissors are genuinely fantastic.

Cons for Leatherman: Proprietary screwdriver bits can be a limitation without an adapter.

Round Winner: Leatherman Wave+. While the Center-Drive Plus closes the gap with the addition of scissors, the Wave+'s broader toolset still offers a bit more for tackling truly unexpected situations. However, the Center-Drive Plus wins major points for its superior screwdriver setup.

Round 3: The Durability Duel (Build Quality and Resilience)

Gerber Center-Drive Plus: Built with the same ruggedness as its predecessor, the "Plus" feels incredibly solid. Many models still feature those clever three-sided replaceable carbide wire cutters, ensuring long-term cutting power. This tool is designed to take a beating and keep on ticking (or, you know, snipping and screwing).

Leatherman Wave+: Leatherman's reputation for durability is well-earned, and the Wave+ is no exception. Its stainless steel construction is robust, and the replaceable wire cutters are a welcome feature for extending its lifespan. Both tools are built to be dependable workhorses.

Pros for Gerber: Tough construction and the innovative three-sided replaceable carbide wire cutters.

Cons for Gerber: Might feel a tad bulkier and heavier in the pocket compared to the Wave+.

Pros for Leatherman: Excellent build quality and the practicality of replaceable wire cutters.

Cons for Leatherman: None significant in terms of durability.

Round Winner: Tie. Both are built to withstand the rigors of regular use. Gerber's unique wire cutter design is noteworthy, but Leatherman's consistent quality is undeniable.

Round 4: The Ergonomics Extravaganza (Comfort and Handling)

Gerber Center-Drive Plus: The center-axis screwdriver design provides a comfortable and in-line grip for screwdriving tasks, making it feel more like using a dedicated screwdriver. However, the overall handle shape, while functional, might not be as universally comfortable for prolonged general use as the Wave+'s more rounded contours.

Leatherman Wave+: The Wave+'s smoothly sculpted handles are often praised for their comfortable grip, fitting nicely in the hand for a wide variety of tasks without causing undue strain during extended use.

Pros for Gerber: Superior ergonomic for screwdriving tasks thanks to the center-axis design.

Cons for Gerber: Overall handle comfort for prolonged general use might not be as refined as the Wave+.

Pros for Leatherman: Widely lauded for its comfortable and ergonomic handle design.

Cons for Leatherman: None significant.

Round Winner: Leatherman Wave+, for its more universally comfortable grip across a broader range of applications.

The Grand Finale: And the Multi-Tool Monarch Is... (The Recommendation!)

The upgraded Gerber Center-Drive Plus puts up a serious fight, directly addressing some of the shortcomings of its predecessor by including those oh-so-handy scissors. However, the ultimate decision still hinges on your individual needs and priorities.

Go for the Gerber Center-Drive Plus if:

• The one-handed plier deployment is a non-negotiable for your typical tasks. It's still a standout feature.
• A superior screwdriving experience with a center-axis design and standard ¼" hex bit compatibility is paramount. If you frequently use a screwdriver, this is a major advantage.
• The inclusion of spring-loaded scissors and the three-sided replaceable carbide wire cutters tick all your boxes for specific functionalities.
• Gerber’s MSRP is $165 (click link for latest pricing)

Lean towards the Leatherman Wave+ if:

• A broader and more diverse set of tools is your top priority for tackling a wider range of unexpected situations. Its 18 tools offer maximum versatility.
• Comfortable ergonomics for extended general use across various tasks is crucial.
• The readily available ecosystem of Leatherman accessories and the brand's long-standing reputation appeal to you.
• Leatherman’s MSRP is $120 (click link for latest pricing)

Our Verdict (Recommendation):

While the Gerber Center-Drive Plus is a compelling upgrade and a strong contender, offering a fantastic screwdriver and that signature one-handed plier action, the Leatherman Wave+ still holds a slight edge for the average user seeking the best overall balance of tool variety, comfortable ergonomics, and readily accessible key implements (including those beloved scissors).

However, if that center-axis screwdriver and one-handed plier deployment sing to your soul, the Gerber Center-Drive Plus is an incredibly capable and well-built tool that won't disappoint.

Ultimately, both are like that incredibly helpful friend who always seems to have the right gadget for the job. Choose the one whose particular set of skills best aligns with your everyday (and not-so-everyday) adventures!

Now, if you'll excuse me, I think my toaster is acting up, and I have just the tools for a little… persuasion.