Arkansas Canoe Club Forums

Just thought I would pass this on.

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,354735,00.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

I've seen similar products, but this one seems to be taking it to the "next level" with the forced pumping feature, built in carbon filters, and the the ability to get out some of the viruses. (I'd like to research that claim more - most filters don't get enough of the viruses to make the water safe...)

http://www.lifesaversystems.com/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

You can follow the links to the US site.

I'd be willing to bet that the consumer marketed models pricing will be outragious! Any takers?

Cowper wrote:most filters don't get enough of the viruses to make the water safe

Yeah...I think I'd be more comfortable dropping in a Katadyn Micropur tablet. Most of the backpackers I know just use a bandanna as a filter and drop in a tablet. Unfortunately, I found that out after spending $100 on a filter. The tablets were supposed to be my backup.

Cowper wrote:...and the the ability to get out some of the viruses. (I'd like to research that claim more - most filters don't get enough of the viruses to make the water safe...)

The claim seems to be supported - they reference some lab tests; this is apparently an "ultra" filter, gets out down to 0.015 microns (most filters sold to backpackers only get down to 0.2 to 0.5 microns; katadyn for example advertises 0.3 microns)

Cost - yeah, that's an issue. About $230 US, more if you want some extra prefilters, a replacement charcoal filter, etc. Or ~$300 for the larger capacity version.

I like the product; but most of us will find cheaper ways to make our water safe to drink. Prices do seem to be dropping - original price shown on some web pages was more like $400 US.

Ten Nalgene (yes, the ones that cause cancer) bottles filled with tap water will last me just fine on a multiday river trip. Initial cost, less than $80. Number of refills, unlimited.