water filter?

[Zaner01]

That Sawyer system is insanely expensive.

MSR and Katadyn sell similar filters for < $100. I just picked up the Katadyn Base Camp, a similar filter with a 10 L bag capacity and a lower flow rate, for this summer's canoe trip with the kids. $68 Canadian.

 

[DWK2]

MVF,

I've had giardia and crypto a couple times so I can appreciate your double-tapping the water! I often carry the meds with me but I sure don't want to have to deploy them.

DancesWithKnives

 

[BushcraftBrainTrust]

That Sawyer system is insanely expensive.

MSR and Katadyn sell similar filters for < $100. I just picked up the Katadyn Base Camp, a similar filter with a 10 L bag capacity and a lower flow rate, for this summer's canoe trip with the kids. $68 Canadian.

Your Katadyn Base Camp does not remove viruses, so the water will need additional treatment if that is a concern (the Saywer removes both bacteria and viruses). The Katadyn also needs to have its filter replaced every 200 gallons at $40 a pop (the Sawyer has a one million gallon life). It seems like the Sawyer would pay for itself in a couple years (if you plan on using you filter for 5+ years, then your Base Camp is a much more expensive option).

 

[Pilot1]

I'm getting ready to replace my PUR filter/purifier I use for backpacking. What's a good, compact filter/purifier that is light enough for backpacking but is rugged and gives good flow?

 

[Brian_T]

I found this system from Sawyer at REI. I think this will be my new setup. It is impressive because it removes bacteria and viruses (most filters don't). It is a little expensive, but there is no filter to change (you just back flush it).

http://www.rei.com/product/778046

Hmm...I like the looks of that system. Easy to use, easy to maintain, long life span...

A bit pricey but I've got a dividend just waiting to be put toward something...maybe I'll check this one out.

B

 

[Zaner01]

Your Katadyn Base Camp does not remove viruses, so the water will need additional treatment if that is a concern

The only time I would concern myself with removing viruses would be if I was in an area with a known risk of waterborne viruses.

Look on REI, there's a similar Sawyer system that doesn't remove viruses, for $90. So you're paying $120 to remove viruses. What's the actual risk of disease from waterborne viruses in your area?

The only real advantage Sawyer filters offer is the supposed lifetime filter element, which to me falls under the heading of I'll-believe-it-when-I-see-it. If you're sold on the lifetime filter claim, I'd say you're better off going with the $90 Sawyer gravity filter, in a similar price range to the competitive MSR, Katadyn and Platypus options.

 

[scotsmanspride]

MSR miniworks for me too. Never had any issues at all with it. I have tried the UV units but never really liked them. Sure it kills all the bad stuff inside the bottle but never really addressed the bad stuff still lingering on the outside rim of your drinking container. I know....little area to worry about but i have had the bad stomach bug for 2 weeks after bad water and lemme tell ya.. urinating from the wrong location 6 times a day for that long just sucked so I will stick to a filter and or boiling. Also the little aquamira filter that does 20 gallons has been good to me. Have not tried the big 50 gallon filter yet.