The battery-free, hand-crank Sidewinder UV purifier from SteriPEN.

SteriPEN has introduced the battery-free, hand-crank Sidewinder UV water purifier for fall. Like other SteriPEN purifiers, the Sidewinder uses an exclusive UV system that destroys waterborne bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, such as giardia and cryptosporidium.

No batteries or filters means no parts to replace. SteriPEN says the hand-powered version is just as effective as the battery-operated ones, taking 90 seconds to purify one liter of water. Over its lifetime, it will purify about 8,000 liters.

To use the Sidewinder (also see video demonstration below):

1. Fill one-liter bottle and attach Sidewinder.
2. Flip bottle and Sidewinder upside down and unfold handle.
3. Crank until green LED indicates successful purification.

Includes a Pre-Filter to remove particulates from the water prior to treatment and a one-liter Tritan plastic water bottle (not shown in the picture above or video below). The Sidewinder will be available September 2010.

• Weight: 16.6 ounces
• Dimensions: 8.6" x 5.5" x 3.8"
• MSRP: $99.95

Video: SteriPEN Sidewinder

Kayla Small of SteriPEN gave us a demonstration of the battery-free Sidewinder at Outdoor Retailer this week.