If you're a lightweight backpacker, you probably use some kind of tablet or chemical to treat your water. After all, these are probably the lightest options. However, some simply can't get past the perceived risk associated without using a more conventional and robust filter, like a pump.
Unfortunately, at 10-20oz, pumps aren't light. With seals, filters, and mechanics, pumps run the real risk of breaking or clogging which would render the expensive little gizmo fairly useless. Yet, some stick with it. Well, if you were wondering where you could find the lightest pump, check out the Nano Technology 530 (www.sportsimportsltd.com/530gacamicew.html), sale - $74.95.
The Nano 530 is a ceramic filter pump which can filter down to 0.1 microns which is about half the size of other commercial filters. It is only 5.5" tall and weighs an amazing 3 ounces. Because the filter is ceramic, it can also be cleaned which extends its life.
For those that may be interested, reviews say it works, but plan on gaining little output following a lot of work due to the small size. Five minutes of pumping per liter may be expected.
If you want to read up on filtering options and the nasties in water, check out my 2009 entry at http://jolly-green-giant.blogspot.com/2009/03/lightweight-water-treatment-options.html.
8 comments:
Don't buy this, there is no need for a pumping filter, you still need chemicals for 100% virus protection. Use chemicals + Aqua Mira Frontier Pro - chemicals kill the small stuff + virus, Frontier Pro the big stuff + it filters out the chlorine taste (active carbon).
Again, don't buy this. Noone needs a pumping filter!
@ Thrush - Couldn't agree more...but some just prefer a pump or don't want to fuss with a big straw like the Frontier. Personally, I just use tablets and a piece of nylon mesh to filter out grit.
> you still need chemicals for 100% virus protection.
Not true. There is boiling, UV light (Steripen, etc.), and iodinated resin filters (Seychelles). All eliminate viruses.
@ Fu - Good point. I wrote about the various options a while ago, although a lot of new gadgets have come out since then.
http://jolly-green-giant.blogspot.com/2009/03/lightweight-water-treatment-options.html
Ok true, I know this but didn't thought about it, the point was that a pumping filter is not "sure" on its own.
I use a Super Delios filter bottle. Weighs 58g inc. filter. Best filtration system I've ever used. So simple and quick. http://www.delios.co.uk/
@Blogpackinglight - Hadn't heard of that one before, but it has my attention. Thanks for mentioning it.
@thrush: In the USA there is almost no virus threats from backpacking water sources. .2 microns is usually fine.
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