Wanted: Good water filter for PSK/day hikes

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Jun 24, 2007
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I've looked at various types - hand pumpers into your own container with a stream suction hose to bottle-type. Suggestions?

My old way of pouring cups of water through a disposable Mr. Coffee type paper filter into a pan - then boiling it - has to have a better and newer alternative. Thanks!

Stainz

PS This has to fit in a pack - or large vest pockets.
 
I've been looking at them lately as well. The one that has peaked my interest and has excellent reviews is the MSR sweetwater purification system. It kills everything... including virus'. Here is a link to REI. You can find better prices on the web, but REI has some good feedback on the filter that you may find helpful.
 
I was hoping someone would chime in about the Katadyn Hiker or Hiker Pro, the current, I suppose, evolution of the PUR. The straw types would be great backup/minimalist equipment - the 'Survival Straw' at 5,000 gallons/$25 vs the other one - 20 gallons/$15.

Any use-life experiences with the Hiker or Hiker Pro? Bass Pro Sops and Academy Sports/Outdoors carries the basic Hiker. Thanks!

Stainz
 
The MSR MiniWorks can be field cleaned. And it attaches directly to a wide mouth nalgene bottle.
 
I'm certainly no expert...we sell filters in my business and use them in the field for our Wild classes so we put them through the paces...students borrow and "try before they buy". Students can be particularly rough on "other people's gear." So the ones that seem to be sold the most, hold up to mulitple users, and have the most positive feedback are in no particular order:

MSR MiniWorks - as sptpr said can be field cleaned, attached directly to a Nalgene and does a decent volume. Very reliable system historically. A bit large but I own one and it resides in a mission specific pack.

MSR Sweet Water - good reliable system. I have one in another pack that stays full time in my car.

Katadyn Hiker Pro - very reliable and a strong following.

Steripen has its following and not bad for a battery operated piece of technology - it serves a niche. I own one and it resides full time in my suitcase when I travel to other municipalities or communities. I know two microbologists and after visiting with them I no longer trust anyone's water system!

I haven't used or stocked the Platypus or MSR AutoFlow but will be giving it a good test here real soon once they come in.

Check out REI for reviews...also Cabelas has a great "review" section from users.
 
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