None

This is the most dangerous product one can but to be used in serious backpacking conditions. While the idea behinf the filter is good, the quality of the unit and it''s field serviveability are truly TERRIBLE. I used it once for a five day hike in an area known to have bacteria-infested waters. It failed partially on the first day, and completely on the second. The filter clogged quickly and easily, and there was no way to clean it. Due to the increased drag on the system secondar to the increasing filter load, the canister itself popped a seam. We were reduced to chemical treatment and boiling for the remainder of the hike. This was both time-consuming and exposed all of us to heavy chemical loads.

Customer Service

About as good as the product they sell.

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MSR Waterworks - a must have item

I hesitated to buy this purifier because of the mixed reviews that I have read. But this is one great product. I especially like the fact that this purifier does not require any chemicals. Another nice feature of this purifier is that most available water bottles will screw onto the disposable canister. This along with the fast flow rate of this pump make the early morning water duty truly quick and easy. And if you're lazy, use the included gravity feed bag, which doubles as a storage bag, to purify water without having to use the pump.

With the good comes some bad. Since the water source tube is a bit on the short side, you may find yourself bending over to pump the water. The only other anoying thing with this pump is the canister cover. If you are trying to attach a Nalgene water bottle, this cover tends to get in the way with the cap on the water bottle. Other than that, this is a great pump at a very reasonable price. One taste of the pure water (non-chimically treated) and you won't regret this purchase.

Customer Service

No experience

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Exstream (Yuck!)

been using the first need for the last ten (10) years. haven't found anything that would tempt me ot find another system. my filter has proven itself in silt waters in PA to clean waters in VA and WVA. best for the cost , easy clean(back flush) have always used pre-filter, but shouldn't we all???
easy to hold (fits to nalgene)
10 +++++++++++

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None

I have had absolutely no problems with this purifier! I purchased it for the simple reason that it removes bacteria and viruses without chemicals. If you've ever used a purifier with iodine you'll understand.
Although I've read many complaints about clogging, I've yet to experience a problem. I do frequent areas with crystal clear water though! I'd guess with muddy water such as a river you'd want a better prefilter or a unit you can clean to handle the dirt. The rivers I paddle are rock bottom and spring fed, so I haven't encountered dirty water with this purifier. Wouldn't go back to iodine though!
I've filtered approximately 75-80 gallons of water and the purification cannister life is 100 gallons published...

Customer Service

No reason to call after a year-and-a-half.

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None

The first 3 weeks the First Need worked great,far better than other AT hikers on the trail. After some low flowing streams it stopped and would not filter any water nor pump. I called the company and they would not help me and said that I needed to buy another filter from them as my filter was clogged. In three weeks of use this filter should have not needed replacemnt. I did purchase a Pur and went for the next 12 weeks without any problems and continued to use it this year for another 6 weeks of hiking.

Customer Service

Customer service could not help me with my problem. They were however very willing to have me purchase another new one from them and were willing to send me the new one at my next mail pick up.

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Pur Scout Waterfilter

I have used the First Need filter for many years. I recently bought a new filter cartridge (with the threads to fit a Nalgene bottle) and have found it to be very convenient. I do not have a pre-filter. Even so,I have never had a problem with clogging or pump failure. The design is a tad awkward to use, although the new design helps considerably. I have used the filter on backpacking trips, caving trips and general hiking. For my money, this is the best filter around.

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I recently took a 2 week treck with my cousin in Africa and this water purifier was one of the most essential pices of gear that i used. It save my cousin and I from deadly bacteria.

Customer Service

I have had no need to

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none

This filter is rally hard to use: require great physical exertion and patience. Effect and relieable. I found it required excessive backflushing (using old model). THough if you are really on a budget it might be OK. Personally I wouldn't buy one.

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Pur Explorer--better than first need though not as reliable MSR--my favorite better in all regards

Some of my friends use Pur filters, but I hate the way the water tastes, this product is harder to pump but I am a big guy and the end result is worth it.

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This is an essential part of hiking supplies

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