Katadyn Pocket

This filter is very quality and robust.

It is heavy (as pack articles go) and very well made.

Filters water lickity-split, I was shocked at how fast I could pump 3 liters at a pop.

I would strongly suggest that you obtain a longer outlet hose, I have found that 32" is enough so that you can squat streamside, and fill a vessel tucked under your arm.

It is such a good filter, I will only bring this unit for filtration, and if weight is an issue, I will treat chemically. After using this product, the plastic stuff is just plain miserable to use.

I gave it 4.5 stars, because with some additional machining of the aluminum components, I feel that it could drop some grams...but who's counting anyway?

UPDATE:

Actually had to scrub the element when it "slowed down" (still faster than anything out there!). Definitely get a longer outlet hose as I stated above. I can fill a liter bottle super quick.

Sorry folks, but the Katadyn Pocket is overpriced and it is too much work to get a decent amount of water.  Got a workout just getting a shot glass full of water. And I was always scrubbing the ceramic filter with the green-scrubber thingy. Hate it. 

Threw mine in the back of the closet as a Plan C if absolutely necessary (would have thrown it in the trash if I hadn't spent so darn much on it). 

Extremely impressed with this filter. As it is the only one I've used, my opinion is somewhat biased.

I spent several hours on research of which filter I should go with. I read that this filter is heavy and expensive. I also read that this filter last an incredibly long time. Well, they're all true! This filter is definitely heavier and more expensive then most other filters on the market and there is NOT a chance I will buy a different one!

I've tested this filter in literally the dirtiest water I could find and it comes out clear and drinkable! I do find that it's a little bit of work to fill my 3 liter CamelBak but if you're filtering water, don't cheap out and cut corners! I find the maintenance to be very easy to do and cleaning is a breeze. I have noticed that the only part that can keep a smell is the plastic outer sleeve. It's important to clean this filter out and let it dry before storing or you will definitely acquire a permanent taste.

All in all, nothing really to complain about. It's kept me healthy after drinking water that people won't even swim in or let their dogs drink. The weight and value of it is priceless after you take that into consideration.

If you go on long trips, don't leave home without this. I used mine in Maine after my GPS went down. I was alone for almost two weeks, and ran out of fresh water on the second day. This effortlessly filtered my water from the local streams (which I was told was parasite-ridden during the summer months) for over a week. Very handy, I never got ill.

Terrific filter, worth every penny and more. Used on a week-long canoe trip as the only filter for 8 campers. Pumping became a bit harder (and stayed that way even after cleaning) towards the end of the trip but was still pretty easy to use. Filtering a 1L bottle takes 2-3 un-flustered minutes though if pumping hard, you can do it in a minute flat.

Easy to clean and maintain. A bit heavy but will take a lot of abuse (just don't drop it in a lake!). At 13000 gallons per filter cartridge it's at least $1,500 cheaper per gallon than any other filter.

I have spent as long as 70 days in the brush with only the equipment I can carry on my back. This product is worth its weight in GOLD. The first time I left home with it I was a little worried so I took some Micropur tabs and iodide mix along with me. I was absolutely amazed when I pulled water out of the Ohio River, filtered it straight into my container and drank it. This product will save time, loading space and weight from your next trip and allow you to carry other gear instead of buches of water.

If you don't mind a little extra weight then you can't beat this filter. In the long run it's cheaper than the Hiker Pro, it's field maintainable, and it's made of quality materials. It's simply the best filter on the market.

Best filter made. Easily pumps gallons. Keep the ceramic filter clean for easy pumping.