Steripen

[frequency]

Anyone have experience with the Steripen? Have recently been asked if it will really purify water/really effective and rugged enough for a four day trip in the Rockies. Also for that measure, I have a Katadyn filter with a .3 micron threshold advertising itself as preventing Giardia. Anyone out there who can attest to the same? Thanks.

[sbennett]

I have the same filter and have never gotten sick after using for 7 years (with a replacement of the filter cartridge of course).

The steripens supposedly work and come with some sort of case to protect them don't they? Keep in mind you need to find someway to keep dirt and other stuff out of your water and bottle/hydration bladders may be hard to fill in small springs, etc.

[NLena]

I used the SteriPen last year for my thru and I LOVED it. I used lithium batteries to make it lighter and last longer. I never had any problems with it - until I accidentally broke it on a slackpack (my fault, not the SteriPen's fault). It does come with a cap so that the bulb is always protected. You can also get the kit which includes a prefilter. I carried the prefilter for about three weeks and then sent it home - most of the water doesn't need to be strained and, if it does, I just used a bandana.

[sheepdog]

I've used a steripen on several trips(Three hikes in Michigan, 2 weeks on the AT). Some people use a piece of nylon stocking to filter out floaties. I don't bother. It has worked very good for me.

[Rickosovitch]

I've used my Steripen for over a year and the only problem I had was in trying to use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. Since I switched to using only Panasonic non-rechargeables I've never had a problem and highly recommend this item. Just be sure your water is clear before using. If not, filter it at least through a bandana. The pre-filter's a good idea if you think your water sources may not be clear.

[Ashman]

I have been on three hikes with a buddy who had a Steripen. He had issues with it on two. IMO its not worth the cost or the weight. I would prefer to go with a pump. You still have to get the water into your container and the Steripen doesn't help when all you have is a trickle.

[_terrapin_]

I have been on three hikes with a buddy who had a Steripen. He had issues with it on two. IMO its not worth the cost or the weight. I would prefer to go with a pump. You still have to get the water into your container and the Steripen doesn't help when all you have is a trickle.

Yep, I've been thinking about that. But I'll be taking the Steripen next week and leaving the filter at home. I guess I'll need to keep the plastic cup handy for scooping up water (it generally packs inside my cooking pot, along with the stove) and maybe a small funnel to help with filling the Platy. Minor annoyance in exchange for 8 oz. saved.

[SurferNerd]

I considered the SteriPen for my thru hike next year, but it won't work with my small opening Sigg bottles, and neither can I guarantee the usage of the solar charger. It's not gonna go with me.