[Skunkabilly]

Which, and why? :confused: :o

[usp_fan]

Skunk,

I don't have a Katadyn so I may be tainted by my MSR. I researched filters for 2 years before buying. I bought the msr miniworks because for the $, size, and output it seems to be the best for my needs.

I really find the design friendly to service. If it clogs, it is back in action after a quick scrub of the filter element. Then new MSR filters have better flow than my miniworks. The design is very feild serviceable with (very) basic tools.

Some negative points people bring up: If the filter element freezes it could crack.--granted

Flow rate is slow--Not with the newer models and filter element.

It only filters not purifies--that's right, buy the level of protection you are comfortable with. Use iodine when in doubt.

Both will be fantasic. I'd try each before you buy and see which works with your water carrying system and what pump style you like best. REI or some other high end outdoor stores should have display models to play with.

Good luck--If your ever in Ohio bring your pack and filter and I can show you some great places to use it.

[Skunkabilly]

Looking at the MSR Mini-Works 2003 model.

How do they pack? I'm afraid of breaking the handle.

[harrydog]

Can't say that I have any experience with the MSR filters. They look like a knock off of the Katadyns but not as heavy duty. The Katadyn will stand up to a lifetime of use. Don't know about the MSR. Are the MSR ceramic filters impregnated with bacteriostatic silver?

[Unisaw]

Skunk,

I have used the MSR mini-works for several years while backpacking on the Appalachian Trail. I have not encountered any problems and it seems to be very durable. However, I do carry tablets to use as a back up.

[Obiwan]

Skunk

Do what I did

Go to REI and try them all!

[Wildalaska]

Having used them all, here in Alaska, where the water is extrmely silty, and the conditions crappy, I have found only one that cuts it...

The Sweetwater...with the prefilter it works.....

All the rest fail...

Wildcoolclearwater...waterAlaska

[Unisaw]

I initially had a Sweetwater and it broke two days into a backpacking trip. That was probably about 5 years ago -- perhaps they have improved it.

[usp_fan]

Skunk,

My miniworks has held up great. Handle has not been a weak point. When I pack, I don't go light as I'm humping the load for my wife and son while my wife packs in our son. The filter gets jammed into wherever it will fit and is not treated delicately.

I know it wouldn't be any consolation if it failed at a time of need, but msr has excellent customer service. Additionally, if you buy from REI, if you ever have a problem with the product, they will take it back. Once again, I know--that's no good if it fails when you need it---but it does allow me to use my gear hard and have confidence that I have recourse if it fails.

usp_fan

[QuarterBoreGunner]

Just to further muddy the waters (oh yeah! I went there!) I believe the MSR has a adaptor option that lets you screw the filter to a Nalgene bottle mouth.

Get thee to REI and continue thy studies.

[Unisaw]

The bottom of the MSR mini-works screws directly onto a nalgene bottle -- no adaptor is necessary. This eliminates one concern: accidental contamination of the output port.