NexTool has a history of interesting adjustable wrench multi-tools, from the pliers-less W1 to the pliers-equipped W2, and a third non-W model. Now, fresh off the factory line (as of April 2025), comes the W4. This isn’t just another multi-tool; it’s a statement piece, a testament to NexTool’s commitment to innovation. Unlike many brands that simply imitate the Leatherman formula, Next Tool carves its own path, often incorporating special features like their Flagship Pro’s exceptional scissors and the Gemini’s novel electric bit driver. With the W4, that special feature is, of course, the ratcheting adjustable wrench.
Packaging
The W4 arrived in a simple yet practical package containing the tool itself, nestled in a protective pouch, a desicant pack, and a user manual detailing the tools and functions.
Specifications
The W4 incorporates 11 tools. And is made mostly of metal: 30Cr13 steel, 5052 aluminum, and 8Cr14Mov steel. Despite this, it is pretty light and compact: dimensions of 152.6 x 49.9 x 20.7 mm and a weight of approximately 313g ± 5g.
Design
The W4 boasts a striking aesthetic. The metal surfaces sport a sleek satin finish, complemented by black anodized aluminum accents. A series of strategically placed lightening holes not only contribute to the tool’s visual appeal but also help reduce weight, a testament to Next Tool’s attention to detail. The build quality is impressive, reinforcing the brand’s reputation for solid craftsmanship.
Tools
The star of the show, the ratcheting adjustable wrench, features highly-legible laser-engraved centimeter markings and opens up to a useful 2.5 cm (approximately one inch). The action is reasonably smooth, with a minor amount of play—a characteristic common in adjustable wrenches. But what sets this wrench apart is its ratcheting mechanism.
A small lock controls the ratcheting function. When locked, the wrench operates conventionally. Unlocking it, however, allows the jaws to open slightly during rotation, enabling continuous turning without needing to reposition the wrench. This clever design involves a pin that disengages when the wrench is twisted, facilitating the ratcheting action.
But the W4 is more than just a wrench; it’s a comprehensive multi-tool. A plain-edge, one-hand opening knife with a secure liner lock is readily accessible. A versatile file with a crosscut side and a diamond-coated side as well as a metal saw adds another layer of functionality. A wood saw, compact yet equipped with sharp, pointed teeth, rounds out the externally accessible tools.
Deploying the pliers reveals Next Tool’s standard plier head design: long-nose pliers, bolt grippers, soft and hard wire cutters (but no crimper), and what appears to be a secondary wire cutter. The spring-loaded pliers are a welcome touch, enhancing usability.
There’s also an magnetic extended bit driver, compatible with included Phillips and flathead bits, that is integrated into the plier handle. The bit driver provides excellent reach, but unfortunately, the pliers can’t be closed with the bit attached so the bits must be stored in a dedicated bit holder. Accessing the bit holder also requires opening the pliers and sliding the bit into place, where it’s held by the magnet. A slightly clunky process, but a minor inconvenience considering the overall functionality.
Comparisons
Compared to a Leatherman Wave, the W4 is roughly the same thickness but noticeably wider and taller, accommodating the integrated wrench. The plier heads differ slightly; the Leatherman boasts a longer needle nose, while the Next Tool’s pliers are chunkier and more robust.
Placed next to a standard 150mm adjustable wrench, the W4’s wrench component is comparable in length, demonstrating the efficiency of its integrated design. Essentially, the W4 combines the functionality of a separate adjustable wrench and a multi-tool into a single, convenient package.
Final Thoughts
The Next Tool W4 is a specialized multi-tool, geared towards users who value the convenience of an integrated adjustable wrench. While it might not replace a dedicated toolbox, it’s an incredibly useful tool for household tasks, plumbing repairs, bicycle maintenance, and even light automotive work. It’s the kind of tool you’ll want to keep in your car for those unexpected moments when a wrench or a multi-tool is needed. The W4’s unique design and robust build quality make it a compelling alternative to traditional multi-tools, especially for those who frequently work with adjustable wrenches.