...anytime I contemplate applying any serious torque/force to a multi-tool, I figure I'm probably using the wrong tool. I generally have access to more substantial hardware if need be, so I try to avoid 'stress testing' them too much (though I have broken one or two in my day). I look at multi-tools as more of a convenience, rather than a substitute for dedicated - and beefier - individual tools.

Having said that, yes, I can see where the spring-loaded pliers could potentially be weaker than the pliers on the Wave, though I've never pushed them hard enough to verify that. The pliers on both the Recoil and the Pro Scout seem a little 'looser' than the Wave's' but I guess it really all boils down to how you intend to use the tool. I use my multi-tools quite a bit, but in more of a lite-duty fashion. I'm usually far more concerned with how well the knife (or knives) will hold up. Pliers are nice, but the knife (or knives) will probably bear the brunt of the workload.