Water Filters for my Backpack

[Guest mike45acp]

Hello

I am looking for some advice on a quality water filter for my backpack. I would like to drink from some streams and ponds in the Newhampshire Main area. thanks

[Guest Verbal Kint]

Do you have a price budget that you're wanting to stay under? There are tons of systems out there and can get pretty pricey depending on how serious you want to go.

[creeky]

HERE is what we use when we backpack.

MSR Miniworks $84.95

(It's my brother-in-laws.)

What I like...

• Small

• Pretty light

• Easy to clean the ceramic filter (filters last VERY long)

• You can screw a nalgene bottle to it to pump directly in it

• Very easy to use

• Comes with a little gauge that tells you when to change the filter.

Little pricey, but I look at it as an investment. I want to buy my own, just

to speed up getting water filtered. Right now we have four of us using it.

Which isn't real bad, cause you end up setting around talking while you do it.

I have seen other guys using those ultra violet pens. Those a re a little

more pricey, use batteries, (can break, but then again anything can) and if you have some sediment in the water you'll still want to strain it through something.

[Guest EasilyObsessed]

http://www.rei.com/product/767831

I have used this one for the past year. Great filter for two - four people.

What exactly are you needs? Are you buying a filter for solo outings? Is this to provide a group of people water? When you go backpacking, are you an ultralight extremist? Id highly recommend stopping at your local outdoor store and asking a salesman for advice after telling them exactly what you are looking for. REI is great if you have one near you.

[analog_kidd]

Stick with MSR or Katadyne, I think they are the best.

This on http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___88102 is the latest one by MSR and is getting pretty good reviews. It pumps really fast, something like 3 liters per minute. If you've ever used a filter you know they pump really slow and your arm will definitely be tired after two liters. This one also filters just about everything. Not sure what filter cartridge replacents cost.

My son owns a MSR miniworks and it is also quite nice, but for it's price, I'd spend a few more $$ and get the other one.

I currently have a Katadyn. It is their top of the line model, but many years old. Still does a good job. The thing costs around $200 new, but replacement filters are $170, so I figure I might as well buy something new. Will probably get the MSR above.

Also think about how many gallons a cartridge can filter before replacing. You'll find some filters that are very econoimical, but will only filter a few 100 gallons. Could be OK if you're only using it a few times a year, or it would be bad if you're doing the AT and will use it every day.

[Guest Verbal Kint]

Another vote for Katadyn.

USCAV is currently out of stock on this model, but I've used this one in the past and it flat kicks ass. It's a little pricey at $209.99 but definitely worth the cost, IMO, and it was really well made.

http://uscav.com/Productinfo.aspx?productid=8963&TabID=548

The most rugged longest lasting microfilter available - lasts up to 13,000 gallons (over 20 times longer than standard filters). The Pocket Filter's highest quality construction make it the water filter of choice aboard military vehicles in Iraq and Afghanistan and for professionals who demand only the best. Exclusive silver impregnated ceramic element prohibits bacterial growth and can be cleaned many more times than standard filters. Absolutely no plastic parts to lose or break. After 30 years the Pocket is still the best choice for extreme conditions. Filters 1 quart/liter per minute.

• Aircraft aluminum and stainless steel pump shaft
  
• Ergonomic handle, rubber anti-slip base
  
• Output hose with bottle clip makes the Pocket easier to use than ever before
  
• Hydration pack accessory
  
• Stainless steel pre-filter
  
• Bottle/Canteen clip
  
• Durable carry case
  
• Ceramic cleaning tools
  
• Dimensions: 10.6" x 2.3"
  
• Lifetime manufacturer's warranty
  
• Imported
  

Color: Black

Weight: 2 lbs.

[Guest Centennial]

Katadyn.

Edited September 26, 2008 by Centennial

[Guest SUNTZU]

I have two miniworks ex. Awesome filter. Long lasting. I have dropped mine ten feet onto rocks and had zero problems. I did add the prefilter, and bought some of the same size hose to extend the reach. I keep one with my backpacking gear and the other with my pickemup truck. I have two of the refurb kits that can be bought at Blue Ridge here in Knoxville. I haven't had to use either one yet. I've been running the MSR miniworks ex for about six years(?).