I have been using this exact filter system for years, and have to say, I couldn't be happier with it. It is fast, efficient, and doesn't take up too much space in your backpack. I give it five stars, from several years of experience.
Ohhh, I am so glad you made this video. I purchased one after seeing you using it in so many vids. I got one for my brother a couple of years ago. I just sent him the link. It was hard to explain to him how great a piece of equipment it was. Thanks!
Thanks for the informative video. I have a PUR hiker that I purchased in the late '90's...it always had an iodine taste and turned clear water yellow. I knew that katadyn now makes the hiker, and all of the videos on UA-cam about the katadyn hiker show the water coming out clear and everyone says it tastes great. Thanks for explaining the old "purifier" statement that PUR had made. Great video, and thanks again, especially for the tips on cleaning it after use.
If your are contemplating getting this filter just get it. Works amazing. Went on a 2 month long backpacking trip with this filter. It also was used for 4 separate weekend backpacking trips before hand. Filter still is working great. Bought an extra and it just stayed packed up the whole trip. It pumped water for my wife and I for 2 months. I highly recommend it. Friend bought a bag filter that you have to squeeze through. After watching him use it Im so glad I went this way.
I've been using the Katadyn Hiker for years & it's been a solid filter & I've never had any issues with it. It currently has the Hiker Pro filter in it as I replaced the old filter after much use. When you don't have a llama or pack mule carrying in 10 liters it's great to have this filter for back country excursions : ) Great review as always Nutn!
Hi Nutnfancy from the UK. I have used Katadyn Hiker Pro for the last four years and like you have found it to be a solid piece of kit. This past year I bought the Lifesaver Bottle this is one cracking piece of equipment. It can filter up to 4000 litres of water on one internal filter. It is in use with both UK & US military out East.
Cheers for water bucket! I've just added that to my system! It's pretty sweet, and just letting the sediment settle is huge. If you are pumping from a churning creek, puddle, or an algae infested lake, you can start clogging an MSR filter after a couple liters. However, the nice part of the MSR filter is that you can scrub the ceramic filter, removing the particle that clog it.
the best water filter!I had a PUR version of the HIKER since 1995.Sadly,got stolen this year.i will be buying the KATADYN ,hiker.I have never gotten sick. these filters work ,so far as i can tell.
I have the Hiker Pro shown in your outings. Fabulous item. Worth every penny, especially when you're finding fresh water sources scarce or iffy. I've been pleasantly surprised at the durability of the pumping/charging handle. The kids find it very easy and handy to use. Even doubles as an emergency air mattress air pump. May void warranty!
Good to see you getting back to the backpacking stuff. Me personally, I use a Sawyer gravity system (2l). It is a little slow but you don't really have to do anything except put the water in it. No pumping so you can go tend to other tasks while your water filters. It is also guaranteed for 1,000,000 gallons. I filter 2 litters refill the "dirty water" bag and when the clean water is gone, I filter the next 2 liters. I also have a steri-pen that doesn't filter but purifies.
I have this water filter and love it! It has been put in puddles and streams and has never failed me. I didn't know Nutn was a oz watcher after watching him lug around 90 lbs and all.
Looks like a pretty legit filter. I definitely like the pickup hose. I use a steri pen, which I like for being light, pretty fast, and not messing with the taste of the water. I wish it had some way like the pickup hose for getting at little trickles of water, but it's not a huge issue because where I hike water is everywhere. What works great for someone might not work for you or vice versa. You have to make your own decisions based on the data points, and this channel is a great source of them
While camping last winter we had a human-induced failure of the KH. We pumped water at night, but didn't clear out the intake or filter, and overnight it froze inside. The next morning we hadn't realized, tried pumping water, and the pressure from new water hitting the ice blockage caused a crack in the top, rendering it useless. We should have run hot water through it first. Dumb mistake. Great video, love the filter. Gotta love how many options are available for having clean water. -rugb
I have just recently been looking at water filters for my emergency home storage, and was considering a ceramic. Thanks for the input! Keep them coming!
Fricken love your videos and reviews dude. You actually swayed me from getting my original choice, a "Sawyer Squeeze Filter". Im gonna want something that isnt going to clog up on me while bushwacking and its nice I didnt have to trial and error that myself. Thanks again for the no bologne videos.
I just bought my first Katadyn Hiker. Was wanting to get the Pro version but unfortunately the sporting goods store didn't have that model. Good side is that the standard version came with an attachment to fill hydration bladders. So the only difference in the Standard and Pro from what I can tell is the color and the Pro has the extra screen. Though if the Pro's filter will fit into my standard I probably won't upgrade. I'll just get the better filters. Thanks Nutn, keep em coming!
Everyone I know that has this filter, including myself, has had that same issue on the output ziplock bag. It busted on everyone of them. Not a big deal, but it seems like they would have fixed this by now. Thanks for the video!
My father and I have a backpacking trip planned this November. After a lot of research I still was not sure of the best filter. I bought my father a Hiker Pro (older Gray model) a week ago. I held off on the the 2012 model (black body) because of limited reviews. Bought myself a Miniworks EX. I thought having both filters would provide the most versitility for the trip. I still plan on picking up a Hiker pro for myself in the future....Wish I had waited for your video first. Thank you
A very useful tip for any of these filters is this: carry along a few coffee filters and rubber bands. If you place one on the outside of the intake housing, with the rubber band holding it in place, you effectively create a pre-filter that helps keep some of the bigger particles from ever getting into the filter, thereby extending the cartridge life. If the coffe-filter pre-filter ever gets too mucky, you just replace it with another. Even cheap coffee filters will do.
Thanks a lot for this great detailed review Nutn', I was saving up for the Katadyn Pocket despite the huge cost, came across your review yesterday comparing the models and ordered the Hiker Pro instead. Cheers!
I use and have the katadyn hiker and its worked great, never been sick yet! I also like the sawyer point one and two! Most of this review I knew but, wanted to see our opinion about it!! Thx for review nutn!
The Vario has glass fibre pre-filter (like the Hiker Pro) on the in-tube. The ceramic pre-filter happens after the in-tube. I don't have any experience with either of these but I just wanted to point that out. I got this information from the Katadyn website. Great review, I had been looking in to purchasing one of these.
I was just using my Katadyn Vario this weekend at Mt San Jacinto. It has two pre-filters. One is a screen at the end of the inlet tube (looks just like on the Hiker), and a ceramic one in the body of the filter. The ceramic can be easily bypassed (twisting the body) if need be, but I found mine to pump faster than anyone elses with it intact. Also, it is a disk shape and the flat surface makes scraping the ceramic prefilter easy.
I love my Katadyn Pocket Micro Filter. Worth every penny of 250 dollars, never have to worry about cartridges again. Nut one and have a filter for life.
TNP = best gear review channel hands down. I watched this video abt a year ago and was sold on the Hiker (still haven't bought it). Since then I've thought abt the MSR Miniworks, Sweetwater, and Katadyn Vario. I watched this video again and that's it, Hiker all the way. If its good enough for TNP its good enough for me.
nutn, I am the guy you flew over standing on kings peak, anyways I personally hated the filters we used up there on that trip. I personally when clear water can be found is just roll with potable aqua no pumping and I normally throw some drink mix in so the iodine isn't an issue, use filter as backup I noticed you pumping from a bag, fill bag first then pump from it to your cantene, while sitting comfy under a tree, dude freaking awesome idea, your not crouching over the stream in the mud etc
Nutt'in, we use white coffee filters to pre-filter v/s your paint filters. They are slower to filter but putt out more and smaller contaminates. They seem lighter but..... you have to also tote in a form in which to first place the coffee filter element so it does not collapse on itself. Good info, as ALWAYS !
Thank you for this video, I already own a Katadyn hiker pro and I love it, I find it not to be that bad on the weight, comes with a good bag, parts, and instructions (it's worth ever oz). I've used it a lot with no issues and I've filter some pretty questionable water, so over all A+. Again thanks for this video, always something to learn from another backpacker.
Excellent. I have the Hiker as well but I rarely go out for extended periods so it's mostly dead weight but it increases my comfort and state of mind so it's a positive.
I was looking at a much more expensive unit and I'm glad I watched this review. I had a $50GC Balance to Dick's from a Christmas gift, but they really don't have much in the realm of camping/hiking gear (almost an afterthought). I saw that they had this filter and started doing some review searching. As soon as I saw this video my decision was made. Total damage to my wallet was only $29! ;)
Thanks for the reply... Good point. At the time of my first comment, i was thinking of this as a tool to be used on every camping or hiking trip but i see that doesn't have to be the case. so i can agree with you on the "for emergency" part. In an emergency survival scenario, my idea would be to minimize risks wherever and however possible and the Katadyn will get that done. Better to have and not need than to need and not have.
i am currently running the katadyne vario. i love it, now. first time out with it, i was not selective with my water source and the ceramic pre filter clogged almost immediately. once i realized my mistake, scrubbed the ceramic clean it has worked flawlessly ever since. take care of them and they will last. break down, flush with bleach solution and dry is a must. i recommend always using the longer life vs. the faster flow. faster flow just by passes the ceramic pre filter,
After extensive wilderness backpacking experience with the Katadyn Hiker, I recently purchased an MSR MiniWorks. The Hiker is lighter, but the handle has broken on me several times in normal use (weak plastic), and is uncomfortable for extended pumping. I carried an extra filter cartridge ($40), but as I hiked through backcountry for an extended period of time I desired a filter element that could be easily cleaned and unclogged. The MiniWorks has that and a more comfortable and reliable handle.
I like that the Katadyn Hiker uses the same filters as the Katadyn Base Camp gravity filter, which works well when you’re not filtering on the move and can afford to wait.
Also upon further research, the ceramic filter is switched on or off by the user if they want extra pre-filtration. The hiker fills the back-packing trip niche better than the vario however
One last thing on the hiker, I had the blue input port break when i was trying to get the silicone tube off once. Called Katadyn when i got back and they replaced it straight away.
I live in a disaster area (Southern Cali) and I always forget about the water filtration system until Nutn brings me back to reality. Glad you finally did this review cuz I was thinking of just getting a straw type filter like the Aquamira Frontier Pro. Actually, I know you don't like them but it'd be cool to get your view on this brand. Adam from Equip 2 Endure really likes them for the light weight and effectiveness.
If I remember correctly Pur and Katadyn were direct competitors when I worked at REI in the mid-90s... (but Pur decided to stick to the larger home-commercial filter market)... I think MSR also had some comparable backpacking models.... I don't remember which one people in-store tended to recommend. We definitely pushed these pump-filters though as preferred to other options, because of their speed and quality. We'd always emphasize that good water was as necessary as food or fire or shelter.
I've been using Pur/ katydyn hikers and hiker pro for about four or five years so far and I gotta agree. for multi-day trips especially with large groups of people (5-10) the hikers water purifying capacity is unbeatable. the fact you can clean the filter or change it on the trip is awesome too. Only thing bad i have seen is when people put pressure on the outward end of the handle on the downward stroke and break it off. not as easy to use without a handle lol.
Look into the First Need XL filter as well. Only one on the market that is EPA certified to filter out viruses as well. It's a little heavier and bulkier, but it's a one stop shop. I attached a MSR silt-stopper to mine to extend the life of the filter.
thank you very much for review Nutn. very very helpful. we had to use the MSR Miniworks EX Water Filter and it took us about an hour to fill up a 32OZ nalgene bottle. after a few pumps it gets over pressured (if that's a term) so you have to wait for the water to go through then pump again. so if it gets cold (which it did) you're pretty much screwed :))
Hey nutn, the SweetWater has a filter with a ceramic exterior and carbon core, which is actually why I STRONGLY prefer it! if it does get clogged it is 100% field serviceable with the included brush that removes a very small layer of the ceramic. Having a carbon based filter also means it can improve the flavor of funky water. I also love having a fulcrum on the pump handle, in my opinion it's an easier, though not simpler, pump to use.
Hey Nutn! Another informative and entertaining video! Thanks for your work! Although I may have some diverging views, I prefer your videos over most TV programs. Talking about water filters, I own the platypus gravity works, and so far, it seems to work well. Its pricey at $110, but weighs 11-ish ounces and the filter is rated for about 400 gallons. I got lucky and got mine for $50. However, if it takes a crap on me for whatever reason, I may go for the Katadyn thanks to your review!
On a three day, 20 mile, hike in the Sierras we reached our second destination, a beautiful clear lake. Between a group of about 30 people we have 5 katadyn hikers. Within our first 15 minutes of trying to pump this "clear" water we manage to clog and damage all 5, regardless of the amount of cleaning we did to try and remove debris. I even manage to snap a valve while forcing water through a clogged filter. Point is, bring a backup system (we had 2 MSR's that we made due with for all of us). :)
Thanks for the video, I'm brushing up on my armchair wilderness skills. I'm taking a group of 5 out at the end of the month with a couple of greenies, I wouldn't have gotten into backpacking had it not been for TNP.
There are a number of filters that can do virus duty. The finest filtration available is lifesaver bottle @15 nanometers, .015 micron. I have a couple. I own the PUR Hiker NIB Voyageur model which has an anti virus filter. Very old, I'm sure Kat doesn't make a replacement. 54.6% iodine bonded to quaternary ammonium polystyrene anion exchange resin. I wish they still sold this element. I hear sweet water replaceable prefilters help a lot. Thanks Nutnfancy for review.
He nut'n enjoy the show. I work at an outdoor store and over the past couple years we've started carying the Steri Pen. It uses an ultraviolet light to kill harmful bacteria that the katadyn filters out. Filters a 1 liter nalgene bottle in 90 seconds without the need to pump, cost is roughly the same as traditional pump filters. The weight is similar and the size of a steri pen is much smaller than a pump filter. Also, it can be used as a backup flash light. Just thought I would share.
Great review. I have used the hiker, the vario, the MSR sweatwater and miniworks. I personally own the miniworks because i got it for free. between the two brands I think it is a toss up quality wise. I have had extremely good service from MSR so I am biased toward them. In a survival situation where dehydration is possible go ahead and drink the unfiltered water. there is a 3 day incubation period for the bacteria that will get you sick and most rescues happen within that time.
I have the Pur version of this and have used it when backpacking. Water doesn't taste great out of it (probably need a new filter because it's old), but it kept all of us from getting sick. Pumping was a bit difficult but not too bad.
Well, we all know about opinions and how everyone has one but I'll call your "last few months" and raise you 3 years. That's how long I've been using the Katadyn hiker pro. It has worked perfectly without fail or flaw. I don't have to give you my opinion on it because the of the FACT that for the four years I've been drinking water filtered through this filter, I have never gotten ill.
Thanks for the review. Just ordered the hiker Pro. I like the pre-screen, that is somewhat field cleanable. I have used the Hiker, and several straw filters, but looking forward to the Pro getting some use!
Check out the Katadyn Pocket too. I've been using it for years in some pretty questionable water and it's worked brilliantly. Very durable and the life time warranty shows the confidence Katadyn has in it. It's also field maintainable which is a plus for me as I know I can depend on it when it counts.
Nutn, I have used the "Vario" on a couple of occasions. The real advantage it has is the volume of water it will pump. It has a "double action" piston which will produce a continuous stream of filtered water, The problem I found was that you really had to use very even and light pressure on the pump handle or the amount of water would be too great for the filter to handle and would begin to leak out of the cap and any other seal. Basically, the pump is too strong for the filter.
Last year I was putting together a survival kit for my finally and I tested a hiker pro vs the MSH ceramic filter. Both took one sample from a pool and a nasty stagnant river. I sent the 4 water samples into a water testing lab and the hiker passed both for drinking quality but the MSR failed the river filtration. Just some more info for you.
Neat video. Ill say though, the MSR Miniworks is rated at 2000 liters or 528 gallons. I have had mine for about 3 years now with many months out in the woods (as a backpacking and hiking guide) and i have yet to have to change the filter. That's the reason i was drawn to it. Although, i am currently considering switching to a Steri pen for the weight and purification capabilities.
I'd like to see an MSR mini works on the project. I don't know if you've ever used one, but I personally think it has a lot of features that make it better, easier, and lighter than the Katadyn filters.
The Vereo is a nice filter. The ceramic pre filter is not the same as the pre filter screen. It's a ceramic puck that is inside the pump and it can also be bypassed by simply turning the dial on the top of the pump. They did that so that if you're pulling from a clean source you can by pass it, but if you HAVE to pull from a dirty source you can get the added "protection" of the ceramic filter. It also comes with a scrubber to clean the puck off if it gets clogged. Give it a try.
I am still glad I purchased the Katadyn Pocket. My experience is not extensive, but a few years ago I went with a group of backpackers that loved the filter. The leader had one just like mine. I have not heard of clogging concerns. A spare filter is probably a good idea anyhow.
Hey nutn/veri Have you ever checked out this filter system by a company named Platypus? They make a hiking/backpacking filter kit which I've been really impressed with. It is just two thick poly bags connected with tubing together, running through a simple filter cartridge. You just fill up one of the bags, hang or hold it up, viola! Siphon pressure does all the hard work for you. It does 1.75/min. Its super-light weight, simple, compact. Platypus makes great hydration systems in general.
I have a MSR and it' pretty nice.... best $60 I spent. I saw USNER DOC the other day talking about the life straw and I think I wanna get one of those too. I will recommend this Katadyn to my friend who needs to get a water filter.
Just an fyi. The vario has the same screen filter on the intake tube. The ceramic filter is a disc inside the unit that you can choose to bypass depending on how clean your water is.. I always have just pumped through the ceramic disk and have only had to clean it when I've gotten home. No stoppages. vario also has carbon which helps with the taste of that oops I have to filter from crappy water. But thanks for taking the time to show the hiker pro. Just don't think I'll trade my vario yet lol
Nutn isn't joking about selling product. Whenever I search something on Amazon (like this filter) the "Customers Also Bought..." area is filled with other Nutnfancy products.
I had a pur scout. it was great, went thru 2 filters in it, now they are too hard to find so I have a Katadyn Hiker pro on order. seems like a better unit and can't wait to try it out.
Excellent review. I have never had to deal w/filtration even with the many hurricanes I have been through and weeks w/out power (generator/well). One question is how will you know when you max out the gallons of your filter? Discoloration, suction of the pump etc. Thanks, Jim
for home water filtration.internet prepper has a drip type ceramic filter for $30.00, its the filter only, you use food grade plastic buckets scrounged from your local restaraunt,i use river water and ive never gotten sick,i highly reccomend it
I have been using a hiker pro for quite awhile now for car camping ie. canoeing, weekend trips, etc. I wouldn't recommend using this for long distance hiking since its heavy and I'm a fastbacker. For that I would go with a Katadyn Exstream which I used to through hike the AT and Long Trail. I have pushed the filter to 200 gal. I wouldn't go beyond that since I hate the idea of getting giardia and killing my trip. Good review.
Sawyer squeeze is 3ozs and has a million gallon filter life, I use it all the time. They also have the ability to be easily backwashed. The katadyn hiker would be my second pick though.
Great review on the hiker. I've got a LIFESAVER BOTTLE in my disaster preparedness storage. It touts a .15 micron filter that is supposed to filter all microbes, bacteria and viruses. It also boasts about a 2000 liter life to the filter or better. It seems a bit heavy for hiking, though. The katadyn would appear to be better in your hiking POU. LIFESAVER also has a Jerry can that it boasts will filter 20k liters. Might be worth a review in a WROL POU.
This was the filter I was going to get anyway, and yet another honest review from Nutn confirmed my leaning toward the hiker. Also, like the super compact canteens, any idea where I can get them?
Nutnfancy I couldn't help but comment that you are The Man when it comes to reviews and old brochures! That rocks.
I have been using this exact filter system for years, and have to say, I couldn't be happier with it. It is fast, efficient, and doesn't take up too much space in your backpack. I give it five stars, from several years of experience.
Ohhh, I am so glad you made this video. I purchased one after seeing you using it in so many vids. I got one for my brother a couple of years ago. I just sent him the link. It was hard to explain to him how great a piece of equipment it was.
Thanks!
Thanks for the informative video. I have a PUR hiker that I purchased in the late '90's...it always had an iodine taste and turned clear water yellow. I knew that katadyn now makes the hiker, and all of the videos on UA-cam about the katadyn hiker show the water coming out clear and everyone says it tastes great. Thanks for explaining the old "purifier" statement that PUR had made. Great video, and thanks again, especially for the tips on cleaning it after use.
You have the voice of a home shopping network host. And I love it.
If your are contemplating getting this filter just get it. Works amazing. Went on a 2 month long backpacking trip with this filter. It also was used for 4 separate weekend backpacking trips before hand. Filter still is working great. Bought an extra and it just stayed packed up the whole trip. It pumped water for my wife and I for 2 months. I highly recommend it. Friend bought a bag filter that you have to squeeze through. After watching him use it Im so glad I went this way.
I can't sit and watch TV for longer than 20 mins, yet I can watch a review for a water filtration system for 25mins ? Nothing like a Nutn review !
I've been using the Katadyn Hiker for years & it's been a solid filter & I've never had any issues with it. It currently has the Hiker Pro filter in it as I replaced the old filter after much use. When you don't have a llama or pack mule carrying in 10 liters it's great to have this filter for back country excursions : ) Great review as always Nutn!
Hi Nutnfancy from the UK.
I have used Katadyn Hiker Pro for the last four years and like you have found it to be a solid piece of kit. This past year I bought the Lifesaver Bottle this is one cracking piece of equipment. It can filter up to 4000 litres of water on one internal filter. It is in use with both UK & US military out East.
Cheers for water bucket! I've just added that to my system! It's pretty sweet, and just letting the sediment settle is huge. If you are pumping from a churning creek, puddle, or an algae infested lake, you can start clogging an MSR filter after a couple liters. However, the nice part of the MSR filter is that you can scrub the ceramic filter, removing the particle that clog it.
Thank you for working with your youth group. Too many ppl think it's something someone else should do, or the YG leader's job. Keep up the good work!
the best water filter!I had a PUR version of the HIKER since 1995.Sadly,got stolen this year.i will be buying the KATADYN ,hiker.I have never gotten sick. these filters work ,so far as i can tell.
Four years in and your videos have only gotten better! Don't stop believing. Hold on to that feeling.
I have the Hiker Pro shown in your outings. Fabulous item. Worth every penny, especially when you're finding fresh water sources scarce or iffy. I've been pleasantly surprised at the durability of the pumping/charging handle. The kids find it very easy and handy to use. Even doubles as an emergency air mattress air pump. May void warranty!
Good to see you getting back to the backpacking stuff. Me personally, I use a Sawyer gravity system (2l). It is a little slow but you don't really have to do anything except put the water in it. No pumping so you can go tend to other tasks while your water filters. It is also guaranteed for 1,000,000 gallons. I filter 2 litters refill the "dirty water" bag and when the clean water is gone, I filter the next 2 liters. I also have a steri-pen that doesn't filter but purifies.
I have this water filter and love it! It has been put in puddles and streams and has never failed me.
I didn't know Nutn was a oz watcher after watching him lug around 90 lbs and all.
Looks like a pretty legit filter. I definitely like the pickup hose. I use a steri pen, which I like for being light, pretty fast, and not messing with the taste of the water. I wish it had some way like the pickup hose for getting at little trickles of water, but it's not a huge issue because where I hike water is everywhere. What works great for someone might not work for you or vice versa. You have to make your own decisions based on the data points, and this channel is a great source of them
I've been thinking about getting a water filter and you just sold me on the hiker pro! Thanks Nutn!
While camping last winter we had a human-induced failure of the KH. We pumped water at night, but didn't clear out the intake or filter, and overnight it froze inside. The next morning we hadn't realized, tried pumping water, and the pressure from new water hitting the ice blockage caused a crack in the top, rendering it useless. We should have run hot water through it first. Dumb mistake. Great video, love the filter. Gotta love how many options are available for having clean water. -rugb
I have just recently been looking at water filters for my emergency home storage, and was considering a ceramic. Thanks for the input! Keep them coming!
Fricken love your videos and reviews dude. You actually swayed me from getting my original choice, a "Sawyer Squeeze Filter". Im gonna want something that isnt going to clog up on me while bushwacking and its nice I didnt have to trial and error that myself. Thanks again for the no bologne videos.
Love this video Nutn. By trade I'm a filter element design engineer and I found your analysis quite informed!
I just bought my first Katadyn Hiker. Was wanting to get the Pro version but unfortunately the sporting goods store didn't have that model. Good side is that the standard version came with an attachment to fill hydration bladders. So the only difference in the Standard and Pro from what I can tell is the color and the Pro has the extra screen. Though if the Pro's filter will fit into my standard I probably won't upgrade. I'll just get the better filters. Thanks Nutn, keep em coming!
Everyone I know that has this filter, including myself, has had that same issue on the output ziplock bag. It busted on everyone of them. Not a big deal, but it seems like they would have fixed this by now. Thanks for the video!
My father and I have a backpacking trip planned this November. After a lot of research I still was not sure of the best filter. I bought my father a Hiker Pro (older Gray model) a week ago. I held off on the the 2012 model (black body) because of limited reviews. Bought myself a Miniworks EX. I thought having both filters would provide the most versitility for the trip. I still plan on picking up a Hiker pro for myself in the future....Wish I had waited for your video first. Thank you
A very useful tip for any of these filters is this: carry along a few coffee filters and rubber bands. If you place one on the outside of the intake housing, with the rubber band holding it in place, you effectively create a pre-filter that helps keep some of the bigger particles from ever getting into the filter, thereby extending the cartridge life. If the coffe-filter pre-filter ever gets too mucky, you just replace it with another. Even cheap coffee filters will do.
Thanks a lot for this great detailed review Nutn', I was saving up for the Katadyn Pocket despite the huge cost, came across your review yesterday comparing the models and ordered the Hiker Pro instead. Cheers!
I use and have the katadyn hiker and its worked great, never been sick yet! I also like the sawyer point one and two! Most of this review I knew but, wanted to see our opinion about it!! Thx for review nutn!
That was one of the best filter reviews I have ever seen, wonderful job - loved the hike areas too!
The Vario has glass fibre pre-filter (like the Hiker Pro) on the in-tube. The ceramic pre-filter happens after the in-tube. I don't have any experience with either of these but I just wanted to point that out. I got this information from the Katadyn website.
Great review, I had been looking in to purchasing one of these.
I was just using my Katadyn Vario this weekend at Mt San Jacinto. It has two pre-filters. One is a screen at the end of the inlet tube (looks just like on the Hiker), and a ceramic one in the body of the filter. The ceramic can be easily bypassed (twisting the body) if need be, but I found mine to pump faster than anyone elses with it intact. Also, it is a disk shape and the flat surface makes scraping the ceramic prefilter easy.
Dude, I love my katadyn pocket ceramic filter, you clean it and just keeps on going and going.
I love my Katadyn Pocket Micro Filter. Worth every penny of 250 dollars, never have to worry about cartridges again. Nut one and have a filter for life.
TNP = best gear review channel hands down.
I watched this video abt a year ago and was sold on the Hiker (still haven't bought it). Since then I've thought abt the MSR Miniworks, Sweetwater, and Katadyn Vario. I watched this video again and that's it, Hiker all the way.
If its good enough for TNP its good enough for me.
nutn, I am the guy you flew over standing on kings peak, anyways I personally hated the filters we used up there on that trip. I personally when clear water can be found is just roll with potable aqua no pumping and I normally throw some drink mix in so the iodine isn't an issue, use filter as backup I noticed you pumping from a bag, fill bag first then pump from it to your cantene, while sitting comfy under a tree, dude freaking awesome idea, your not crouching over the stream in the mud etc
Nutt'in, we use white coffee filters to pre-filter v/s your paint filters. They are slower to filter but putt out more and smaller contaminates. They seem lighter but..... you have to also tote in a form in which to first place the coffee filter element so it does not collapse on itself.
Good info, as ALWAYS !
This filter has been my choice for close to 20 years, even when it was owned by Pur. For the investment, the quality is top-notch.
I have a hiker that I bought before Y2K. I'm glad to see an in depth review.
+ for having it as part of your home preparedness kit. I have a MSR Miniworks EX though, a very good filter in my experience.
Thank you for this video, I already own a Katadyn hiker pro and I love it, I find it not to be that bad on the weight, comes with a good bag, parts, and instructions (it's worth ever oz). I've used it a lot with no issues and I've filter some pretty questionable water, so over all A+. Again thanks for this video, always something to learn from another backpacker.
Great filter. I have the Pur version, and it has served me well over the years.
Excellent. I have the Hiker as well but I rarely go out for extended periods so it's mostly dead weight but it increases my comfort and state of mind so it's a positive.
I was looking at a much more expensive unit and I'm glad I watched this review. I had a $50GC Balance to Dick's from a Christmas gift, but they really don't have much in the realm of camping/hiking gear (almost an afterthought). I saw that they had this filter and started doing some review searching. As soon as I saw this video my decision was made. Total damage to my wallet was only $29! ;)
Thanks for the reply... Good point. At the time of my first comment, i was thinking of this as a tool to be used on every camping or hiking trip but i see that doesn't have to be the case. so i can agree with you on the "for emergency" part. In an emergency survival scenario, my idea would be to minimize risks wherever and however possible and the Katadyn will get that done. Better to have and not need than to need and not have.
i am currently running the katadyne vario. i love it, now. first time out with it, i was not selective with my water source and the ceramic pre filter clogged almost immediately. once i realized my mistake, scrubbed the ceramic clean it has worked flawlessly ever since. take care of them and they will last. break down, flush with bleach solution and dry is a must. i recommend always using the longer life vs. the faster flow. faster flow just by passes the ceramic pre filter,
Ive been using a pur hiker for years and it is wonderful. Thanks for the maintence tips i threw away my instructions years ago.
Have the hiker pro, love it and now added the Sawyer squeeze Filter as a back up. Love the video!
After extensive wilderness backpacking experience with the Katadyn Hiker, I recently purchased an MSR MiniWorks. The Hiker is lighter, but the handle has broken on me several times in normal use (weak plastic), and is uncomfortable for extended pumping. I carried an extra filter cartridge ($40), but as I hiked through backcountry for an extended period of time I desired a filter element that could be easily cleaned and unclogged. The MiniWorks has that and a more comfortable and reliable handle.
I like that the Katadyn Hiker uses the same filters as the Katadyn Base Camp gravity filter, which works well when you’re not filtering on the move and can afford to wait.
Thanks for this brother. I have been looking to replace my old water filter and I think this will do just fine. Great review.
Also upon further research, the ceramic filter is switched on or off by the user if they want extra pre-filtration.
The hiker fills the back-packing trip niche better than the vario however
One last thing on the hiker, I had the blue input port break when i was trying to get the silicone tube off once. Called Katadyn when i got back and they replaced it straight away.
I live in a disaster area (Southern Cali) and I always forget about the water filtration system until Nutn brings me back to reality. Glad you finally did this review cuz I was thinking of just getting a straw type filter like the Aquamira Frontier Pro. Actually, I know you don't like them but it'd be cool to get your view on this brand. Adam from Equip 2 Endure really likes them for the light weight and effectiveness.
I created a new playlist because of this video... The 'Nutnfancy Wishlist'.
Damn, this is going to get full, really quickly.
If I remember correctly Pur and Katadyn were direct competitors when I worked at REI in the mid-90s... (but Pur decided to stick to the larger home-commercial filter market)... I think MSR also had some comparable backpacking models.... I don't remember which one people in-store tended to recommend. We definitely pushed these pump-filters though as preferred to other options, because of their speed and quality. We'd always emphasize that good water was as necessary as food or fire or shelter.
I've been using Pur/ katydyn hikers and hiker pro for about four or five years so far and I gotta agree. for multi-day trips especially with large groups of people (5-10) the hikers water purifying capacity is unbeatable. the fact you can clean the filter or change it on the trip is awesome too. Only thing bad i have seen is when people put pressure on the outward end of the handle on the downward stroke and break it off. not as easy to use without a handle lol.
Look into the First Need XL filter as well. Only one on the market that is EPA certified to filter out viruses as well. It's a little heavier and bulkier, but it's a one stop shop. I attached a MSR silt-stopper to mine to extend the life of the filter.
thank you very much for review Nutn.
very very helpful.
we had to use the MSR Miniworks EX Water Filter and it took us about an hour to fill up a 32OZ nalgene bottle. after a few pumps it gets over pressured (if that's a term) so you have to wait for the water to go through then pump again.
so if it gets cold (which it did) you're pretty much screwed :))
Hey nutn, the SweetWater has a filter with a ceramic exterior and carbon core, which is actually why I STRONGLY prefer it! if it does get clogged it is 100% field serviceable with the included brush that removes a very small layer of the ceramic. Having a carbon based filter also means it can improve the flavor of funky water. I also love having a fulcrum on the pump handle, in my opinion it's an easier, though not simpler, pump to use.
Hey Nutn! Another informative and entertaining video! Thanks for your work! Although I may have some diverging views, I prefer your videos over most TV programs. Talking about water filters, I own the platypus gravity works, and so far, it seems to work well. Its pricey at $110, but weighs 11-ish ounces and the filter is rated for about 400 gallons. I got lucky and got mine for $50. However, if it takes a crap on me for whatever reason, I may go for the Katadyn thanks to your review!
Thanks for the review vid. I need to pick up a water filter fir my desaster kit and was pondering between the hiker and the pro.
On a three day, 20 mile, hike in the Sierras we reached our second destination, a beautiful clear lake. Between a group of about 30 people we have 5 katadyn hikers. Within our first 15 minutes of trying to pump this "clear" water we manage to clog and damage all 5, regardless of the amount of cleaning we did to try and remove debris. I even manage to snap a valve while forcing water through a clogged filter. Point is, bring a backup system (we had 2 MSR's that we made due with for all of us). :)
Thanks for the video, I'm brushing up on my armchair wilderness skills. I'm taking a group of 5 out at the end of the month with a couple of greenies, I wouldn't have gotten into backpacking had it not been for TNP.
best godamn review I've watched on anything, makes me feel like an expert afterwards.
There are a number of filters that can do virus duty. The finest filtration available is lifesaver bottle @15 nanometers, .015 micron. I have a couple. I own the PUR Hiker NIB Voyageur model which has an anti virus filter. Very old, I'm sure Kat doesn't make a replacement. 54.6% iodine bonded to quaternary ammonium polystyrene anion exchange resin. I wish they still sold this element. I hear sweet water replaceable prefilters help a lot. Thanks Nutnfancy for review.
I've got 4 hiker pros...one in each of our bug out bags and one in the boat.....
Works like a charm......
He nut'n enjoy the show. I work at an outdoor store and over the past couple years we've started carying the Steri Pen. It uses an ultraviolet light to kill harmful bacteria that the katadyn filters out. Filters a 1 liter nalgene bottle in 90 seconds without the need to pump, cost is roughly the same as traditional pump filters. The weight is similar and the size of a steri pen is much smaller than a pump filter. Also, it can be used as a backup flash light. Just thought I would share.
perfect timing on this video my brother an i were just arguing over which filtration system to go with
Great review. I have used the hiker, the vario, the MSR sweatwater and miniworks. I personally own the miniworks because i got it for free. between the two brands I think it is a toss up quality wise. I have had extremely good service from MSR so I am biased toward them. In a survival situation where dehydration is possible go ahead and drink the unfiltered water. there is a 3 day incubation period for the bacteria that will get you sick and most rescues happen within that time.
I have the Pur version of this and have used it when backpacking. Water doesn't taste great out of it (probably need a new filter because it's old), but it kept all of us from getting sick. Pumping was a bit difficult but not too bad.
Well, we all know about opinions and how everyone has one but I'll call your "last few months" and raise you 3 years. That's how long I've been using the Katadyn hiker pro. It has worked perfectly without fail or flaw. I don't have to give you my opinion on it because the of the FACT that for the four years I've been drinking water filtered through this filter, I have never gotten ill.
Thanks for the review. Just ordered the hiker Pro. I like the pre-screen, that is somewhat field cleanable. I have used the Hiker, and several straw filters, but looking forward to the Pro getting some use!
Check out the Katadyn Pocket too. I've been using it for years in some pretty questionable water and it's worked brilliantly. Very durable and the life time warranty shows the confidence Katadyn has in it. It's also field maintainable which is a plus for me as I know I can depend on it when it counts.
Nutn, I have used the "Vario" on a couple of occasions. The real advantage it has is the volume of water it will pump. It has a "double action" piston which will produce a continuous stream of filtered water, The problem I found was that you really had to use very even and light pressure on the pump handle or the amount of water would be too great for the filter to handle and would begin to leak out of the cap and any other seal. Basically, the pump is too strong for the filter.
Last year I was putting together a survival kit for my finally and I tested a hiker pro vs the MSH ceramic filter. Both took one sample from a pool and a nasty stagnant river. I sent the 4 water samples into a water testing lab and the hiker passed both for drinking quality but the MSR failed the river filtration. Just some more info for you.
Neat video. Ill say though, the MSR Miniworks is rated at 2000 liters or 528 gallons. I have had mine for about 3 years now with many months out in the woods (as a backpacking and hiking guide) and i have yet to have to change the filter. That's the reason i was drawn to it. Although, i am currently considering switching to a Steri pen for the weight and purification capabilities.
I'd like to see an MSR mini works on the project. I don't know if you've ever used one, but I personally think it has a lot of features that make it better, easier, and lighter than the Katadyn filters.
Nutn is the greatest philosopher of all time!!!
Philosopher of use
i've been waiting on this review for years! thanks for the upload nutn
Looks like me and dad may get a couple of these to purify the lake water when all hell breaks loose. Thanks for info Nutn'
Nice to see other people using those "hot beverage bags" for storing everything dry :D. Nice review
The Vereo is a nice filter. The ceramic pre filter is not the same as the pre filter screen. It's a ceramic puck that is inside the pump and it can also be bypassed by simply turning the dial on the top of the pump. They did that so that if you're pulling from a clean source you can by pass it, but if you HAVE to pull from a dirty source you can get the added "protection" of the ceramic filter. It also comes with a scrubber to clean the puck off if it gets clogged. Give it a try.
I am still glad I purchased the Katadyn Pocket. My experience is not extensive, but a few years ago I went with a group of backpackers that loved the filter. The leader had one just like mine. I have not heard of clogging concerns. A spare filter is probably a good idea anyhow.
Hey nutn/veri
Have you ever checked out this filter system by a company named Platypus? They make a hiking/backpacking filter kit which I've been really impressed with. It is just two thick poly bags connected with tubing together, running through a simple filter cartridge. You just fill up one of the bags, hang or hold it up, viola! Siphon pressure does all the hard work for you. It does 1.75/min. Its super-light weight, simple, compact.
Platypus makes great hydration systems in general.
I have a MSR and it' pretty nice.... best $60 I spent. I saw USNER DOC the other day talking about the life straw and I think I wanna get one of those too. I will recommend this Katadyn to my friend who needs to get a water filter.
Just an fyi. The vario has the same screen filter on the intake tube. The ceramic filter is a disc inside the unit that you can choose to bypass depending on how clean your water is.. I always have just pumped through the ceramic disk and have only had to clean it when I've gotten home. No stoppages. vario also has carbon which helps with the taste of that oops I have to filter from crappy water.
But thanks for taking the time to show the hiker pro. Just don't think I'll trade my vario yet lol
Nutn isn't joking about selling product. Whenever I search something on Amazon (like this filter) the "Customers Also Bought..." area is filled with other Nutnfancy products.
I had a pur scout. it was great, went thru 2 filters in it, now they are too hard to find so I have a Katadyn Hiker pro on order. seems like a better unit and can't wait to try it out.
@Tactr- The Nalgene Cantene is available on eBay, 32oz is $10.99, free shipping. Nalgene makes a 32oz, 48oz & 96oz
Another great review. I bought two of them. Thanks Nutnfancy.
Excellent review. I have never had to deal w/filtration even with the many hurricanes I have been through and weeks w/out power (generator/well). One question is how will you know when you max out the gallons of your filter? Discoloration, suction of the pump etc.
Thanks,
Jim
for home water filtration.internet prepper has a drip type ceramic filter for $30.00, its the filter only, you use food grade plastic buckets scrounged from your local restaraunt,i use river water and ive never gotten sick,i highly reccomend it
I have been using a hiker pro for quite awhile now for car camping ie. canoeing, weekend trips, etc. I wouldn't recommend using this for long distance hiking since its heavy and I'm a fastbacker. For that I would go with a Katadyn Exstream which I used to through hike the AT and Long Trail. I have pushed the filter to 200 gal. I wouldn't go beyond that since I hate the idea of getting giardia and killing my trip. Good review.
I ordered the Katadyn Hiker Pro from Sportsman Guide and it came with the gray chamber instead of the updated black one.... Still a good value...
Those paint strainers do help with filter life a lot.
Sawyer squeeze is 3ozs and has a million gallon filter life, I use it all the time. They also have the ability to be easily backwashed. The katadyn hiker would be my second pick though.
Great review on the hiker. I've got a LIFESAVER BOTTLE in my disaster preparedness storage. It touts a .15 micron filter that is supposed to filter all microbes, bacteria and viruses. It also boasts about a 2000 liter life to the filter or better. It seems a bit heavy for hiking, though. The katadyn would appear to be better in your hiking POU. LIFESAVER also has a Jerry can that it boasts will filter 20k liters. Might be worth a review in a WROL POU.
Have you used the MSR MiniWorks EX Microfilter? It's a similar filter made in Seattle,USA, which I think you and your viewers would appreciate.
This was the filter I was going to get anyway, and yet another honest review from Nutn confirmed my leaning toward the hiker. Also, like the super compact canteens, any idea where I can get them?
Always carry backup ways to purify water. In addition to my primary filter I carry Potable Aqua iodine tablets, a SteriPen, and a pot I can boil in.