I like the MSR miniworks ex, 1 filter (replacements are $40) will last 500+ gallons, its lightweight (15 oz.) and totally field serviceable. With a few replacement o-rings, you can fix any problem with the filter (this is why its issued to marines).
Anything issued to marines is good enough for everyone. While learning about hiking I bought a Katadyn Mini, it's a great filter, but slow. I would go with the MSR if I had to do it again.
I use a First Need Deluxe, as it is the only filter that will stop viruses too. The others, including the MSR and katadyn still require Aqua Mira, iodine, or bleach drops to kill the viruses that make it through.
With this filter I can put blue dye in a glass of water, and when I pump it through the filter into another glass, the water comes out clear. Not even the dye can make it past the filter.
the blue dye is probably iodine, bleach, or chlorine. And all it takes to remove those chemicals after purification is activated carbon. the MSR miniworks has an activated carbon core, as well as a .2 micron ceramic filter... so you could use your blue dye with it if necessary.
I used to really like MSR products, but my friend had a MSR miniworks, which was made to poor standards, he brought it back on warranty 3 times and got the same problem with each replacement, then got his store credit back fed up.
I like kataydn, from the filters I have seen they are unrivaled in quality of construction and durability. although I am unfamilar with the first need filter posted here.
I would like a MSR or Katadyne for base camp, but these handheld units are tiny and will filter everything you need to worry about in N America. There are some excellent videos on youtube showcasing these filters.
Keep backup tablets or drops in case of filter clogging. This goes for all filters. Don't rely on iodine. It stinks and will not render cryptosporidium safe.
One of the most effective water purifiers on the market, the First Need Deluxe removes protozoan cysts, bacteria and viruses, using General Ecology's patented "structured matrix sealed canister". Importantly, it does so without the use of chemicals. That means no iodine or chlorine is needed so there's no bad taste in the water. (Note: it doesn't claim to remove all viruses; just down to the 0.2 level so as to meet EPA drinking water standards for purifiers).
If you are mechanically inclined and like to take your filter apart to scrape out clogged contaminants, you will be disappointed. The unit is sealed and when it clogs or starts pumping slower, you simply replace the cartridge. Replacement filters are readily available and should yours get clogged up on the trail, it will still pump but at a much slower rate.
The First Need Deluxe is ruggedly constructed and one of its benefits is that it connects directly to Nalgene bottles. It also has a protective sanitary cover. A double action pump produces a relatively fast flow with around 35-40 strokes per quart. The First Need has been around for many years and has won Backpacker Magazine's Best Gear Award. The design looks more standard than high tech but if you read the reviews you find that a lot of diehard backpackers have used it for years without complaint.
The last filter I used was a MSR Sweetwater Purifer system. It is a MSR SweetWater filter packaged with a 2 fl oz bottle of purifier solution (basically bleach). Total price is now around $90. The filter will remove bacteria and protozoa, but won't stop free floating viruses; the bleach solution will treat the filtered water to kill viruses.
However, if you are backpacking in the U.S., then you really don't need to worry about viruses.
That being said, I'm waiting for a katadyn pocket to be delivered on Monday -- hopefully that will be the last filter I ever purchase.
It fits in a 4" x 10" water bottle pouch. Get the squeeze bulb primer for it. Give the bottle to a friend that wants a filter bottle and use the bag for something else. The Berkey unit is what is important. Carry a collapsing coffee filter holder with some filter papers in the side pouch with the primer.
My water and basic field cooking kits in two 4"x10" bottle carriers:
MSR makes killer products! However, the Sawyer mini and squeeze are great! Small, light and cheap! I spent 5 nights in Baxter State Park this summer and used the mini with no issues!
Only issue with the mini is that it will clog and require back flushing often if you water source is not crystal clear. Several time this summer I had to flush my mini twice just to get 2 litres of water. The squeeze is a lot better but if you water source is cloudy it too will require back flushing offer. My go to filter for the field is the MSR brand!
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