I am planning my first overnight trip...been reading tons of WB articles and lots of threads. Trying to take in as much info as possible. My question today is what do people perfer...a Steri Pen or a water filter for water filtration. They both seem to have their pros and con...like steri pen light but expensive...water filter a bit cheaper...but heavier....which one works best on the trail...which one is a safer bet for cleaning water...thanks WB for all your information you are going to help make my dream a reality

neither! Save yourself agrivation and get some Aqua Mira. Easy as pie and nothing to break.

what is the aqua mira and how do i find one...any more information on why i should get an aqua mira instead of steri pen or filteration system...

I'm planning on starting my thru-hike when temps are freezing, so i plan on using a steri-pen for the coldest part and a katadyn pocket for the rest.i hope to summit late August so that my arrival coincides with our annual vacation to E. Machias.

You asked about steripen vs. filters. Aqua Mira and related products are chemical treatment. Depending on the type, either add drops or a tablet, etc. and wait a certain period of time for the water to be treated.

I guess boiling water would be the fourth method.

I am planning my first overnight trip...been reading tons of WB articles and lots of threads. Trying to take in as much info as possible. My question today is what do people perfer...a Steri Pen or a water filter for water filtration. They both seem to have their pros and con...like steri pen light but expensive...water filter a bit cheaper...but heavier....which one works best on the trail...which one is a safer bet for cleaning water...thanks WB for all your information you are going to help make my dream a reality

I use the steri-pen because it saves weight and is quicker than the filter, but I have used a filter and chemicals in the past. It is strictly a matter of personal preference. Any of them will make the water safe to drink.

My primary issue with the steri-pen is the batteries. They are expensive and don't last as long as I would like. I save some by buying the batteries in bulk online, but they still cost too much.

Of course the filter has to be changed from time to time. I have never done a study to compare the cost of batteries in the steri-pen vs the filter. My guess is that they come out about even.

PS: Last week, I stayed at a shelter in the 100 Mile Wilderness with a hiker who had a filter that became clogged. Steri-pens burn through batteries. Filters get clogged. And, chemicals taste bad. Take your choice.

I am new to hiking (still accumulating gear for the first over-nighter). I am going to buy a steri-pen just to be on the safe side. I am a microbiologist and I would rather all the microbes be dead. Some are not killed by chemicals. I have tempted fate and drank out of a creek in the woods before, with no problems, but now that I know (and have seen) what is swimming in the water... I want it dead!!:)

I don't own a Steripen, but have hiked with a small group that used one as our primary treatment method. It worked well, took a while to treat water for four, but wouldn't be bad for a single hiker.

I use AquaMira as others have said. It is compact, light, effective, doesn't leave a nasty taste or color, and there is nothing to go wrong. Even when we used the Steripen, I carried AquaMira as a back-up. Anything dependent on batteries and electrical circuits can fail quite readily.

And, chemicals taste bad.Simply not true for Aqua Mira, although a small minority of individuals have posted that they taste something. I'd definitely go with Aqua Mira over a filter, and the cost is much more reasonable than a Steri-Pen. The biggest challenge is to pre-filter out the big floaties before you fill your water bottle. I've used a mini-coffee filter with marginal success, but someone suggested a length of nylon panty hose which I'll this Fall.

wow lots of good info...just looked up the aqua mira...the squirt bottle with the filter inside it...looks like a nifty gaget...i think i might go with the steri pen just bc it seems like the easiest to use and then carry tablets as a back up...as for filtering out the big stuff...i heard a bandana works well or just any thing to put over your watter bottle....im am also trying to be a praticle new hiker...not buy all the most expensive stuff then try and lug 80 pounds on my first hike...i hear a lot of new hikers make that mistake...so im trying to get the most usefull equipment and the stuff that I actually NEED and not just WANT

I am a long time user of Aqua-Mira and it works great.

The one advantage to a strei-pen is that you can be drinking water in 1 minute.

When you are thirsty at a nice cold stream or spring this is a big advantage. My hiking partner carried a steri-pen during our thru hikes and he would always treat water for me during the day. In return I would buy him batteries and treat some water for him at night. I recommend buying Lithium batteries (very lite and last longer) and carrying a spare or 2.

Filtering water would be my last choice, I hate using a filter and you never know if they are working correctly. You can't see a 30 micron crack in a filter. And then there is the possibility of contamination if you are not careful with the hoses. I would perfer to just drink the water and take my chances

Hike you own hike and drink your own water.

I am going to buy a steri-pen just to be on the safe side. I am a microbiologist and I would rather all the microbes be dead. .............I want it dead!!:)
Not to burst your bubble but the Steripen does not kill all. It renders the organisms harmless so they cannot hurt you.

It is a distinction without a difference but it is a difference.

The only downside I found with a steri-pen was the battery usage. It is not so good to have your batteries die while you are in the middle of the woods. I used to carry aqua-mira with me just incase, but I have since just ditched the steri-pen, and use only aqua-mira. If you have your heart set on a steri-pen or a filter I'd go with a MSR Hyperflow filter.

Take a bandanna pour you water into your bottle thru your bandanna that gets out the particulates and then throw some aqua mira in give it a few and drink. If the taste bothers you get some single doese gatoraid, crystal light etc. Unfortunately in Florida most times the water color is not particularly appetizing not like mountain springs. Spring water I just drink it I don't treat it.

I was an old filter guy before this years thru hike. Then I decided to use Aqua Mira to save weight. Glad I did.

I saw way too many hikers this year cussing their SteriPens due to red light "fault" codes and erratic shut offs of the UV light. Calls to SteriPen tech support always yielded a common response- telling them to check/change the batteries (they're damn expensive). Most people got frustrated and ended up with Aqua Mira anyway.

Save yourself the learning curve and dump the SteriPen on the front end. Aqua Mira is what all the cool thru's carry anyway...................

Steripens are sensitive to battery brand, I found out. And you should always carry a chemical backup for when your Steripen craps out, or your filter. Aqua Mira tablets are much, much stronger than the liquid, and kill more bugs.

My primary issue with the steri-pen is the batteries. They are expensive and don't last as long as I would like. I save some by buying the batteries in bulk online, but they still cost too much.You should try lithium batteries. The total cost of ownership is less with them as they last far longer than alkaline, and work well in cold weather too. They also weigh less than alkaline, saving you several ounces if you have an in-use set and a backup set. I bought a 12-pack of them at Sam's for around $19 and one set lasts at least a month.

the cost is much more reasonable than a Steri-Pen. Check my numbers, because they don't quite agree with that:

From an AquaMira test site I got that it costs about $.12/liter
AquaMira: $.12 x 5 (liter per day) x 180 (thru hike days) = $108

Set of lithiums last one month (approx) so 180 days would require six sets
Steripen: 3-pack lithium batteries = $20 x 2 = $40

That yields $68 toward the purchase of a Steripen. By half way through the second thru hike (or equivalent time section hiking), the Steripen is "paid off" (break even) and AquaMira keeps snow balling more expensive.

In two thru hikes the AquaMira user would spend $216
The Steripen user would spend $80 for batteries + $90 for the device = $170. :-?

I use a filter (Katadyn Hiker) and am content with it. I used iodine tablets when I first got started backpacking, but having to wait, having to treat the threads, and having the taste really was no fun.

Aqua Mira does away with the bad taste, but I still prefer using the filter for a variety of reasons.

I would never use a steripen, unless there were no other treatment methods available.

BEWARE! All the talk about using lithium batteries and SteriPens being sensitive to battery types amounts to all the same "canned" SteriPen tech support responses hikers got after their devices crapped out. It's BALONEY!

Besides, doesn't the SteriPen due diligence statement regarding carrying a chemical back-up not make you fall on the floor laughing?

Use Aqua Mira, save your money, and the worlds lithium supplies!

Check my numbers, because they don't quite agree with that:

From an AquaMira test site I got that it costs about $.12/liter
AquaMira: $.12 x 5 (liter per day) x 180 (thru hike days) = $108

Set of lithiums last one month (approx) so 180 days would require six sets
Steripen: 3-pack lithium batteries = $20 x 2 = $40

That yields $68 toward the purchase of a Steripen. By half way through the second thru hike (or equivalent time section hiking), the Steripen is "paid off" (break even) and AquaMira keeps snow balling more expensive.

In two thru hikes the AquaMira user would spend $216
The Steripen user would spend $80 for batteries + $90 for the device = $170. :-?
You are good Summit. Write me up a good financial reason to buy a hammock so I can convince my wife.:D
I like the SteriPen also. I've had mine a couple years with no problems.

BEWARE! All the talk about using lithium batteries and SteriPens being sensitive to battery types amounts to all the same "canned" SteriPen tech support responses hikers got after their devices crapped out. It's BALONEY!

Besides, doesn't the SteriPen due diligence statement regarding carrying a chemical back-up not make you fall on the floor laughing?

Use Aqua Mira, save your money, and the worlds lithium supplies!I've been using mine for over 3 years now, hasn't "crapped out" yet. As noted above, you will not save money. Maybe I'll let you have a sip of my cold water one minute after we stop for a water break. A friend wouldn't make his partner wait 30 minutes to enjoy the cold water! :)

In two thru hikes the AquaMira user would spend $216
The Steripen user would spend $80 for batteries + $90 for the device = $170. :-?

If you're convinced a Steripen will last that long. I'm not.

Anyone able to refute my skepticism?

If you're convinced a Steripen will last that long. I'm not.

Anyone able to refute my skepticism?
You are only skeptical because your from Michigan. Michgan people can be so negative. So do I think you really believe this? I am skeptical.

You are only skeptical because your from Michigan. Michgan people can be so negative. So do I think you really believe this? I am skeptical.


You're right. I really think it will last forever. Those darn electronics really NEVER need to be replaced. Think of all the jobs we could create with consumable water treatment. Michigan needs jobs big time.

You're right. I really think it will last forever. Those darn electronics really NEVER need to be replaced. Think of all the jobs we could create with consumable water treatment. Michigan needs jobs big time.
and we have the water

You're right. I really think it will last forever. Those darn electronics really NEVER need to be replaced. Think of all the jobs we could create with consumable water treatment. Michigan needs jobs big time.I've suggested several times on "steripen threads" that folks who are hard on stuff should probably not go with one. That concurs with icantsleep's experience with SOME steripen users on his thru. I've heard several other thru hikers here on WB report that their steripen worked flawlessly. "Red light fault codes" and "erratic shutoffs" are likely the result of operator error, based on my three years using one. Sometimes you do have to dry off the electrode sensors when it won't fire (no big deal). Other than that occasionally, I haven't had any problems.

So what im understanding is that their are aqua mira tablets...the aqua mira watter bottle....steri pen and filters....how long do the tablets take to take effect...the ones I bought before I went to yellowstone took four hrs. to disolve and kill germs...is that standard for most tablets...I hear Iodine is a good option??? The draw back with the steri pen as it has been stated is the reliance on technology and their are breakable parts and batteries that run out...running out of water is one of my BIGGEST fears about going back packing so I have been doing lots of research and their dosent seem like one is any better then the other...their are +'s and -'s to each so which one to get

ps thank for all the replies keep them coming

If you're working up to your first hike, I'd say go with the AquaMira drops, 1/2 hour treatment period. You will quell your fears about availability of water and how generally easy it is to stay hydrated using common sense and planning ahead (maps = water sources). After that, you may decide to go with a Steripen as primary and AquaMira as backup, or just stick with AquaMira. Experience is the best teacher.

I am glad that I read this. I did not think about a backup (told you I am new). I still want to go with the Steri-pen because it destroys the DNA, from what I understand the filters will not filter out viruses (they are too small). But I like the idea of a backup, because anything electronic or mechanical will break!

I am planning my first overnight trip...been reading tons of WB articles and lots of threads. Trying to take in as much info as possible. My question today is what do people perfer...a Steri Pen or a water filter for water filtration.
Where you going?

For the AT: I choose Steripen as the water is nearly clear at most sites.

For areas where the water is not as clear: Filter

If I had to pick just one I would go with the filter.

It depends on where you go......

You are good Summit. Write me up a good financial reason to buy a hammock so I can convince my wife.:D
How's this:

Tent already paid for.
Hammock = $300
Benefits gained from hammock = not all sore so when I come home to you baby we can . . .

That'll work 'cause women work on emotions and not numbers! :D :eek: :p

Regarding the cost comparison debate:

One will indeed spend more than $100.00 for Aqua Mira on a thru-hike.

This is why I've long favored Polar Pure, another chemical teatment system which I feel is the equal of Aqua Mira in terms of efficiency and ease of use.

One bottle of Polar Pure costs about fifteen bucks, and it's good for 2,000 quarts of water, i.e. it will MORE than be suffiecient for your whole trip.

Lasltly, I saw many Steri Pens on the Trail this year. I heard many complaints of non-working Pens, and even more complaints about the frequency of battery changes.

Lasltly, I saw many Steri Pens on the Trail this year. I heard many complaints of non-working Pens, and even more complaints about the frequency of battery changes.
Non-working is generally from not making an effort to keep the contacts dry......a common user error.

Batteries: Gotta go with Lithium, especially in colder weather. The Steripen will eat alkalines up in cold weather.

I use lithiums all year round and find them to last a LONG time with the Steripen.

SteriPEN Journey VS. filter system VS. Aqua Mira

The SteriPEN
Bulb life 9,463 liters weighing 4.9 oz $100
Rechargeable batteries last 4X longer than the bulb itself 1.2 oz $10 for two
Solar Charger 6.9 oz $80

Water Filter System
1 lb $80-$90
Maintenance Kit $20
A new filter needed every 2,000 liters $40

Aqua Mira
Water drop kit treats 114 liters $14
24 pack tablets treats 23 liters $14
Each weigh about 1 oz
Not having to deal with horrible customer service priceless

I will admit I have never used any of these techniques. I have done the research because I am in the market for something and looking for the most cost effective. In order to treat the same amount of water as the life of the SteriPEN would cost over for $1,000 Aqua Mira and around $260 for the filter system. Please let me know if any of my findings are incorrect.

Add to above:

Polar Pure
$13 or 14 dollars
One time purchase, never needs re-placing
Weight (filled) Just under 5 ounces
Good for 2,000 quarts

Add to above:

Polar Pure
$13 or 14 dollars
One time purchase, never needs re-placing
Weight (filled) Just under 5 ounces
Good for 2,000 quarts

Polar pure sounds like it would be most cost effective. I would like to see how the water tastes for each treatment. I might pay more for better tasting water.

One bottle of Polar Pure costs about fifteen bucks, and it's good for 2,000 quarts of water, i.e. it will MORE than be suffiecient for your whole trip.That's a great price for imported polar bear urine . . . how's the water taste? :eek: :p

Water Filter System
1 lb $80-$90
Maintenance Kit $20
A new filter needed every 2,000 liters $40

The Katadyn Hiker is 11 ounces, and the MSR HyperFlow is 8 ounces.

You don't need a maintenance kit (you will need some silicone to relubricate the o-ring every once in awhile, but the filter should come with that), but you will eventually need a new filter.

Needing a new filter is not a catastrophic event, it just starts getting harder and harder to pump the water as the element gets clogged, but it takes quite a while for that to happen, and you have a *lot* of advanced warning.

The filter is going to be the heaviest of the three options, this is for sure, but you get the benefit that it is the least fussy of the three, and you end up with no sediment in your drinking water.

The filter is going to be the heaviest of the three options, this is for sure, but you get the benefit that it is the least fussy of the three, and you end up with no sediment in your drinking water.Gotta disagree with you there. By the time you get your tubes untangled and connected I'm drinking good cold water treated with my Steripen.

I do mostly fall and early spring hiking and as such, encounter freezing temperatures frequently, not the optimum environment for using filters. And how am I to know that freezing has not hairline cracked my filter, rendering me vulnerable to buggies?

As you can tell, there are proponents for each method, and pros and cons. In a pinch, you can always boil your water if your filter cracks, steripen goes on the blink, or drug-addicted raccoons drink your chemicals. That is, if you're carrying a stove of some sort.

So what im understanding is that their are aqua mira tablets...the aqua mira watter bottle....steri pen and filters....how long do the tablets take to take effect..

I use the liquid Aqua Mira that comes in two small bottles: A & B. You put 7 drops of A in the small lid, then 7 drops of B, wait a few minutes for it to turn yellow, then add to one liter of water. It is drinkable in 15 minutes, as I recall. No bad taste. I have also bought the tablets, but you are supposed to wait 4 hours for them. What I did was use the drops for one bottle to drink now, and the tablets for water to drink later. But actually it is just as easy to just stick with the liquid Aqua Mira instead of the tablets. It runs about $15 and lasts a long time! I've had some expire on me.

Those folks looking for the cheapest method just add a few drops of bleach to their drinking water. UGH! Talk about bad taste! I didn't like the taste of Polar Pure either, but it's better than bleach. Aqua Mira is still the best tasting.

Aqua Mira is still the best tasting.

Of the chemical treatments. Filters and Steripen also give very good tasting water.

Of the chemical treatments. Filters and Steripen also give very good tasting water.
yep, if you want to drink chemicals, stay in the city

I didn't like the taste of Polar Pure either, but it's better than bleach. Aqua Mira is still the best tasting.Makes note to self that polar bear pee is better than bleach . . . got it! :)

yep, if you want to drink chemicals, stay in the cityNow that makes perfect sense!

My zero degree bag is all I ever need really. . .

My zero degree bag is all I ever need really. . .
do you use down or sythetics to filter the water?

do you use down or sythetics to filter the water?
Whenever the time is right, but never not now anyway. . .

My zero degree bag is all I ever need really. . .OK, having said that, is it further from NY to Chicago, or by bus? :-?

The biggest issue with the Steripen is that it requires very clear water to work at optimum effectiveness. If you have some particles and cysts are hiding behind them the Steripen will not neutralize the cysts. I am more into proven technology.

I use the Steripen. I love that it lets you get clear cold H2O from a rushing mountain stream and drink it almost immediately with no pumping, etc., just waving it around in a bottle for a minute or less. Also very easy to pack.

What the heck...?

Isn't Lone Wolf supposed to chime in about how he doesn't purify anything?

What the heck...?

Isn't Lone Wolf supposed to chime in about how he doesn't purify anything?
nah. don't do no good. folks like y'all are sheeple and do what the filter and chem cos. tell you to do. paranoia and all

I've been using mine for over 3 years now, hasn't "crapped out" yet. As noted above, you will not save money. Maybe I'll let you have a sip of my cold water one minute after we stop for a water break. A friend wouldn't make his partner wait 30 minutes to enjoy the cold water! :)


Touche!

Maybe it was just a bad batch of SteriPens on the trail this year? All I know is what I saw- All those SteriPen people running to grab the last of the Aqua Mira in the outfitters along the trail.

The equation of being able to drink water "fast" just doesn't hold up when your UV ain't glowin'...................

All the Best,

-Spokes

OK, having said that, is it further from NY to Chicago, or by bus? :-?
Correct. . .

nah. don't do no good. folks like y'all are sheeple and do what the filter and chem cos. tell you to do. paranoia and all
Just obey the voices and no one gets hurt.:)

I got a Sawyer bottle from WalMart with a filter in it, just dip and go. I also use Aquamira no taste unless you OD it, then the water is dry. I wouldn't mind trying the Steripen Ahem, before I buy one, Ahem. Also I wonder if a lighter bag would work like a 40 deg bag??

I use the Steripen. I love that it lets you get clear cold H2O from a rushing mountain stream and drink it almost immediately with no pumping, etc., just waving it around in a bottle for a minute or less. Also very easy to pack.

Oh yes, another downside. Cold water renders it much less effective. Hopefully you are going through 2-3 cycles per litre.....

In response to David- you'll be fine with a Katadyn Pocket on the AT in cold weather (unless you're southbound starting in December.) Always pump it dry sideways. When mine frooze up, I thawed it on the lid of my cooking pot, I just put some snow in it first so it was like a double boiler and it took almost no time to thaw as there was almost no water in the filter. But after that very cold day in GA, I carried it inside my jacket instead of in the middle of my pack on the really cold days. At night it can easily fit in your bag on below zero Farenheit nights. Frankly, the odds are you'll not have any days on the AT that are cold enough to freeze the Pocket if you pump it dry sideways, though sub-zero will definitely do it if it's too exposed.
As for reliability, it can't be beat. And the filters last forever; I've only replaced mine once despite a lot of pumping and some abusive water sources, such as glacial runoff. The cost is very cheap if you use a filter much, so the only negative is the weight.
I would be far more hesitant to rely on batteries when it's cold.

I wouldn't mind trying the Steripen Ahem, before I buy one, Ahem.You'll get that opportunity in October! :) I'll be sure to bring extra batteries to take care of both of us! ;) I think Christus Cowboy said he picked one up after us using mine on our last hike together. Funny how that's working out. :-?

One more variable to consider is that you really don't have to treat every single liter you drink. If you feel comfortable, as many do, drinking right from springs high on the Appalachian slopes (probably the best water on Earth), you can get by with very little treatment. I carried one set of Aquamira bottles my entire AT thru hike and finished with about 2/3 left. Then I used the same set for a 6-week hike this summer and I still have over 1/2 left. It will probably expire before it gets used. Cost seems to be about $5 per season, it's virtually unbreakable, and it keeps getting lighter. Like most users, I don't notice any taste.

Oh yes, another downside. Cold water renders it much less effective. Hopefully you are going through 2-3 cycles per litre.....

Is this true?

Temp definitely affects chemical reactions, but does it affect light?

My bet would be that you are mistaken here. But I could possibly be wrong, I'm asking.

Well, apparently I am right...depending on what year you bought yours in:

"On occasion, SteriPEN users have reported issues when using their device in water with a very low electrical conductivity, such as water from melted snow or ice. Since late 2008, all SteriPEN models have had their water sensors enhanced by doubling the sensor electrode voltage, thereby increasing electrical current flow in water with low conductivity to allow proper function in snowmelt and even mineral-free distilled water"

wow, ok the hike im planning is the Shannadoah part of the AT. early november, (hope its not to cold by then). I like the idea of the Aqua Mira Drops, takes 15 minutes to clean watter much better then the 4 hr tablets. It will only be a one two night trip. Very simple. Just mentally preparing my self for the week I want to do this spring and the two weeks that I want to do by the end of the summer. The most important thing I learned from this thread is that just bc the equipment looks cool and is expensive dosent mean its the best (well i kinda already knew that but it def has been reinforced) WB this is all great information thanks so much and keep it coming

Well, apparently I am right...depending on what year you bought yours in:

"On occasion, SteriPEN users have reported issues when using their device in water with a very low electrical conductivity, such as water from melted snow or ice. Since late 2008, all SteriPEN models have had their water sensors enhanced by doubling the sensor electrode voltage, thereby increasing electrical current flow in water with low conductivity to allow proper function in snowmelt and even mineral-free distilled water"


Ok, I can see this. Ice/snowmelt is basically distilled water, so few particles to conduct the electricity for the sensors. Doesn't affect the light, and therefore the disinfecting ability. Surface/Spring water, with it's full complement of dissolved minerals and ions would not be affected, even if it were 32 degrees.

Also, your reference states that since 2008 this issue has been corrected.

Well, apparently I am right...depending on what year you bought yours in:

"On occasion, SteriPEN users have reported issues when using their device in water with a very low electrical conductivity, such as water from melted snow or ice. Since late 2008, all SteriPEN models have had their water sensors enhanced by doubling the sensor electrode voltage, thereby increasing electrical current flow in water with low conductivity to allow proper function in snowmelt and even mineral-free distilled water"
You simply do not understand the point they are making.

It has NOTHING to do with temperature. It has to do with the water being so pure that the sensors cannot tell that the unit is in contact with water.

Cold water has NO AFFECT on the efficacy of the Steripen.

Exactly ChinMusic. The electrode's job is to sense the water and turn on the UV bulb. It's the sensing ability to do that that cold snow melt affects. Has ABSOLUTELY NOTHING to do with the UV action in cold water.

I still like a filter because I don't like to drink mud, even if it's dead mud.

I still like a filter because I don't like to drink mud, even if it's dead mud.The need to drink muddy water is pretty rare on the AT.

The need to drink muddy water is pretty rare on the AT.So rare in fact that I've never had to. I've had to scoop out a basin in a slow trickling spring and let it settle before dipping out water a few times, but the water was nice and clear. A little ingenuity, a little patience, what's the rush? Crystal clear water!

So rare in fact that I've never had to. I've had to scoop out a basin in a slow trickling spring and let it settle before dipping out water a few times, but the water was nice and clear. A little ingenuity, a little patience, what's the rush? Crystal clear water!
I had to let muddy water settle ONCE while on the AT (granted I've only seen about 250 miles of it) and that was at Walnut Mountain Shelter in November (2006? - drought year). I let it settle out for a few hours and it was good to use my Steripen. I had to use my micropur backups for the first batch.

You simply do not understand the point they are making.

It has NOTHING to do with temperature. It has to do with the water being so pure that the sensors cannot tell that the unit is in contact with water.

Cold water has NO AFFECT on the efficacy of the Steripen.

Re-read my original post. I said the Steripen was much less effective in cold water; I did not say UV isn't. Guess what? The pre-2009 versions apparently were not effective in cold water as Steripen had to revise the sensors. Perhaps you simply do not understand the point... (who's they?).

In my second post I indicated that they had made changes...hence the quote.

Here is the deal:

-UV works in clear water only.
-does not work well with water that has ice or particles because cysts hide or attach themselves to the particles. UV light does not penetrate ice well.
-reliance on batteries, that will fail quickly in colder temps.
-does not take the taste out of water.
-fragile. Drop the bulb once and tell me how it goes.
-it does not kill anything - only renders them ineffectual. You are still drinking them.
-unknown effectiveness against worm eggs.
-but...is quick to use and lighter than a filter and will attack viruses, which a straight filter won't.

YMMV. HYOH and all of that crap.

Exactly ChinMusic. The electrode's job is to sense the water and turn on the UV bulb. It's the sensing ability to do that that cold snow melt affects. Has ABSOLUTELY NOTHING to do with the UV action in cold water.

Read my original post and then read the post above prior to jumping on the bandwagon.

Re-read my original post. I said the Steripen was much less effective in cold water; I did not say UV isn't. Guess what? The pre-2009 versions apparently were not effective in cold water as Steripen had to revise the sensors. Perhaps you simply do not understand the point... (who's they?).

Go ahead and believe what you want but you are wrong, totally wrong. You are incorrectly reading what you, yourself, have posted. It is a comprehension issue.

The Steripen (new or old) is not affected in any way by cold water. It is just as affective in cold as hot. The issue with the older version had to do with a problem of the unit detecting water if it was ion free. It didn't matter if the demineralized water was 35 or 85 degrees.

I'll put in a vote for the Aqua Mira Treatment (not tablets). I started a thru this year (didn't finish) with a Katadyn Hiker Pro filter and despite washing the filter out it clogged and I broke the handle in the middle of the smokies. had to go out to Gatlinberg and get some Aqua Mira. Friend of mine had the same filter and about 2 weeks later his starting clogging as well and no amount of washing/cleaning could fix it. He bought a Miox water pruifier which is pretty damn good.

I also came across one other guy who's Hiker Pro handle broke, funnily enough, also in the Smokies.

Filters need maintenance which isn't always convenient when you're hiking. I do like how you can drink the water straight away though. Pumping and all the hassle with the hoses (keeping them separate) is a PITA.

Steripen, I like the idea of these and seriously considered getting one in Gatlinberg but, like someone else mentioned. Almost everyone (bar one person) that I came across that was using these had issues with the light not going out to tell you it had finished, and general battery problems. Bad batch maybe?

Aqua Mira, cheap, light and foolproof. Only downside is waiting 15 minute's to drink. Don't get the iodine tablets, they stain everything and you have to wait ages!

The issue with the older version had to do with a problem of the unit detecting water if it was ion free. It didn't matter if the demineralized water was 35 or 85 degrees.

Maybe you are drinking too much of your Steripen water? If the unit is NOT DETECTING WATER if the water was cold then it is pretty ineffectual for purifying. How you can deny that is seriously delusional.

I take it you have a 2008 version.

Maybe you are drinking too much of your Steripen water? If the unit is NOT DETECTING WATER if the water was cold [the steripen works fine if it's just cold surface water, or water flowing under ice. The problem was if it was snowmelt (distilled)] then it is pretty ineffectual for purifying. How you can deny that is seriously delusional.

I take it you have a 2008 version.

It was only a problem if the water you are trying to treat is snow or ice melt. That would be rare for most of us. If you melt snow or ice for water, might as well just boil it. Liquid water with the normal minerals and ions in it, no matter how cold, will not affect the operation of the Steripen.

Maybe you are drinking too much of your Steripen water? If the unit is NOT DETECTING WATER if the water was cold then it is pretty ineffectual for purifying. How you can deny that is seriously delusional.

I take it you have a 2008 version.
Like I said, believe what you want. But I am NOT going to let FALSE information go unchallenged.

You simply are having a problem understanding that the issue is non-ionized water and NOTHING to do with it being cold.

Again, the Steripen has never had an issue whatsoever with treating "cold water".....NONE.

Quit posting erroneous information.

Liquid water with the normal minerals and ions in it, no matter how cold, will not affect the operation of the Steripen.
Bingo. With the first units non-ionized water it could be body temp and still cause a problem. It had NOTHING to do with temp.

In response to David- you'll be fine with a Katadyn Pocket on the AT in cold weather (unless you're southbound starting in December.) Always pump it dry sideways. When mine frooze up, I thawed it on the lid of my cooking pot, I just put some snow in it first so it was like a double boiler and it took almost no time to thaw as there was almost no water in the filter. But after that very cold day in GA, I carried it inside my jacket instead of in the middle of my pack on the really cold days. At night it can easily fit in your bag on below zero Farenheit nights. Frankly, the odds are you'll not have any days on the AT that are cold enough to freeze the Pocket if you pump it dry sideways, though sub-zero will definitely do it if it's too exposed.
As for reliability, it can't be beat. And the filters last forever; I've only replaced mine once despite a lot of pumping and some abusive water sources, such as glacial runoff. The cost is very cheap if you use a filter much, so the only negative is the weight.
I would be far more hesitant to rely on batteries when it's cold. I agree with you but my parents would absolutely KILL ME if I died doing something that they told me not to do. I thought about it, and I may take a wally-world plastic cheapy type as a backup. If all else fails, if im on the trail in30- weather, i can just eat snow

If each system works as advertised then weight factors in. My Pur filter with sack weights 1lb 3ozs. Aqua Mira full 1oz bottles each saves a pound which is a larger then perceived percentage of a base pack weight. If the alcohol cat food stove is about saving weight and not losing function then aqua mira falls into that arguement.

"On occasion, SteriPEN users have reported issues when using their device in water with a very low electrical conductivity, such as"
Lets see distilled water has no mineral content and will not conduct electricity. Water of itself is non conductive, Trash in the water is. That means any mineral content etc and water will begin to conduct. Cold water is not the issue
No minerals then Steripen doesn't know to turn on cause it's smart and don't want to waste Summit's high dollar battery's even if the button is pushed.:)

I'm just going to continue using my Steripen on the AT cause I don't run into much snow (did last April though!), don't run into much muddy water, and I love how fast and painless treating water is with it, and it hasn't failed me in three years. Everyone else do as you deem best for you cause there is no ONLY ONE RIGHT WAY here! If you like fussing with hoses and pumping, then use a filter. If you like waiting 30 min. to 4 hrs, use chemicals. If you like taking chances, use nothing at all, and everyone, please do enjoy that good, cold mountain water. ;)

I will have to agree with Garlics post on this one. Spring water should be aok. I have never had any problems drinking water as long as it is flowing. If it is cold, even the better. Cold water is pretty much harmless anyway. It is when th ewater is warm. I would rather drink from clear flowing water in the winter and spring then use the filters and the chemicals.

I took aqua mira on my section hike and, I know a few of you aregoing to squell, but I used NONE!!. The water sources were cold clear and most diffently better than any treated water I have ever drunk. I do not regret.

However, if I was in an area that is prone to be polluted, i.e. close to a trail town or river, yes I would probably treat it some way.

I look at these threads and I see comments like this, "The company says...", "The package reads...", etc. etc.. Don't believe anything you read. And please people, don't be so overly paraniod!!! It is wilderness, not the city. Do you treat the water coming out of your faucet?

Im not completely sold on the steripen bandwagon yet. In all of the posts I only read one comment about water that had suspended solids in it and the cysts or any
other buggie -wuggie that was behind it that did not get inactivated by the UV light. Colorado river runners don't like the system because of this. I used Aqua Mira and had a General Ecology First Need filter...yes heavy but it worked like a charm on suspect sources, and Aqua Mira for most other sources.

I just had the thought, that if someone were to hook their filter up to the tap (washbasin etc) and filer it into a cup and taste it against a glass of tap water, if the filtered tasted less chloriney, then you can take the filter AND aqua mira and get out as many buggies with aqua mira, and as much silt and aqua mira w/ filter as you like.

In all of the posts I only read one comment about water that had suspended solids in it and the cysts or any
other buggie -wuggie that was behind it that did not get inactivated by the UV light.

I assume (I know, not a smart thing to do) that this is the very reason that the instructions state to gently agitate the water during the treatment process. You are to keep the water (and any floaties, or hiding organism) moving so they are exposed.

I obv havent used any thing yet bc im still planning my first overnight trip. I def do not plan on drinking untreated water....I like the ideah of the steri pen bc it seems simple just so simple...are aqua mira tablets and aqua mira drops the same thing...just wanted some clarification...to get out silt and mud cant you just use a bandana over your water bottle mouth if you are using a ster pen...and why would water temp affect steri pen use...if the water is dirty then the steri pen cleans it right? seems simple enough to me...

My non-expert understanding:


I obv havent used any thing yet bc im still planning my first overnight trip. I def do not plan on drinking untreated water....I like the ideah of the steri pen bc it seems simple just so simple...are aqua mira tablets and aqua mira drops the same thing made by the same company obviously, same general disinfection. My understanding is that the tablets take longer to work. Both take up to 4 hour for total effect against viruses and cryptosporidian which are pretty rare contaminants here in the US - much more of a problem in third-world countries. I use the liquid after 15 to 20 minute...just wanted some clarification...to get out silt and mud cant you just use a bandana over your water bottle mouth if you are using a ster pen A bandana will help, coffee filter would be better....and why would water temp affect steri pen use it doesn't,...if the water is dirty then the steri pen cleans it right? No, it makes the organisms unable to reproduce, does not remove them or other debris like a filter will seems simple enough to me...

lyle great explanation....just the type of break down i like...i dont care about drinking organisms as long as their dead...

lyle great explanation....just the type of break down i like...i dont care about drinking organisms as long as their dead...
For accuracy, technically many are NOT dead, but they are rendered harmless by the Steripen.

This is a distinction without a difference in my book.

If all else fails, if im on the trail in 30- weather, i can just eat snow.

That is not a valid survival strategy; the metabolic energy required to melt snow in your mouth requires more water than you will get from the snow.

You can, however, melt snow in your pot with your stove, and drink that as a water source.

Eating snow is just fine as long as you are expending energy (ie hiking). The metabolic theory fails with a moving body that is not cold.

It is NOT a good strategy if you are stationary and hypothermia is a possibility.

I use Aqua Star and aqua mira as a back up they both work well and are light weight
Hillbilly

If all else fails, if im on the trail in30- weather, i can just eat snowJust avoid the yellow snow . . . lots of it around campsites and shelters! :eek:

Eating snow is just fine as long as you are expending energy (ie hiking). The metabolic theory fails with a moving body that is not cold.

It is NOT a good strategy if you are stationary and hypothermia is a possibility.

Before you give potentially life-threatening "advice", you might want to make sure you understand the concepts you are attempting to discredit.

If you do not believe that dehydration caused by eating snow is a real phenomenon, I would encourage you to ask a physician or someone experienced in wilderness survival.

Before you give potentially life-threatening "advice", you might want to make sure you understand the concepts you are attempting to discredit.

If you do not believe that dehydration caused by eating snow is a real phenomenon, I would encourage you to ask a physician or someone experienced in wilderness survival.

No. I do NOT believe that a well-fed, warm hiker is at ANY risk of dehydration caused by eating snow.........NONE

Just avoid the yellow snow . . . lots of it around campsites and shelters! :eek:

Pink snow too if you're anywhere that snow hangs around for most of the year.

No. I do NOT believe that a well-fed, warm hiker is at ANY risk of dehydration caused by eating snow.........NONE

Quote from "Wilderness Medicine", Fifth Edition by Paul S Auerbach. page 1482:

"For a normothermic person, there is no reason not to "eat" snow as an auxiliary source of water. However, for a person close to being hypothermic or who is already hypothermic, eating snow may increase loss of body heat and exacerbate the medical condition."

It goes on to explain that if snow is the only source of water, and you have no means of melting it, you should compact it as much as possible, then eat in small quantities, making sure that it is fully melted in the mouth before swallowing. It also states that studies have shown some substantial lacerations and abrasions to the mucosa as a result of eating snow frequently.

Pink snow too if you're anywhere that snow hangs around for most of the year.

Yellow snow, pink snow, all we need now is bluw snow and we can all sit around and party. Tye die snow , Now that is coming up next!!!:banana:banana

Quote from "Wilderness Medicine", Fifth Edition by Paul S Auerbach. page 1482:

"For a normothermic person, there is no reason not to "eat" snow as an auxiliary source of water. However, for a person close to being hypothermic or who is already hypothermic, eating snow may increase loss of body heat and exacerbate the medical condition."

It goes on to explain that if snow is the only source of water, and you have no means of melting it, you should compact it as much as possible, then eat in small quantities, making sure that it is fully melted in the mouth before swallowing. It also states that studies have shown some substantial lacerations and abrasions to the mucosa as a result of eating snow frequently.
Thank you for posting information to substantiate my position.

I knew I was right.

Read any Colin Fletcher Books and you will come away with all the warnings of eating snow that you need. He really takes this issue indepth.

Hypothermia is a real threat out there andwe really need to be on our feet (no pun intended) about it. Read all you can. That book quoted from, "Wilderness Medicine" to me is a must have in any hikers library.

wow I love WB I asked one simple question and have learned a plethera of information... greywolf who is the author of "Wilderness Medicine" could you PM me it, im trying to learn as much as I can before my first overnighter in october. And I always at the yellow snow it had more flavor imo...i really cant wait to get out for my first overnight trip in october,

never mind dident read closley enough I just noticed author name of book in above message ooppsss

never mind dident read closley enough I just noticed author name of book in above message ooppsss

Word of Caution. It is a VERY expensive book. See if you can get it from library or inter-library loan.

It's published by Mosby.

http://www.us.elsevierhealth.com/product.jsp?isbn=9780323032285

Aquamira drops is considered a water treatment and the aquamira tablets is considered a water purifier.

The drops do not kill everything. The water is not purified.

The tablets consist of a much stronger dose and will purify the water but it takes 4 hours.

If you want to purify the water, the Aquamira drops are not what you want.

Aquamira drops is considered a water treatment and the aquamira tablets is considered a water purifier.

The drops do not kill everything. The water is not purified.

The tablets consist of a much stronger dose and will purify the water but it takes 4 hours.

If you want to purify the water, the Aquamira drops are not what you want.

I am lookin at my boyyle of tablets right now, It says, 30 minutes

I am lookin at my boyyle of tablets right now, It says, 30 minutes

Opps, my spelling is bad, sorry, bottle

I am lookin at my boyyle of tablets right now, It says, 30 minutes

If I'm not mistaken, and I may be, both the tablets and the drops take 4 hours to be fully effective against viruses and cryptosporidium. The tablets take 30 minutes to substantially kill giardia and most other common bacteria. The drops take 15 minutes, plus the 5 minute preparation time for a similar level of protection. They aren't that different.

If I'm not mistaken, and I may be, both the tablets and the drops take 4 hours to be fully effective against viruses and cryptosporidium. The tablets take 30 minutes to substantially kill giardia and most other common bacteria. The drops take 15 minutes, plus the 5 minute preparation time for a similar level of protection. They aren't that different.

You are so right, But you can also boil the water which you will do anyway when you make your tea or coffee. I don't carry tabs or filters for that reason. Plus I am immune to the little nasties, living in hiking in Texas with all the cattle around, I think they leave me a lone now.

But good information is needed, and I just say, do your research and stay away from those who just want you to buy their product.

This is a good place to do that. And as stated earlier, READ, READ, READ!!!

I still take the late great Colin Fletchers advice on alot of his information

If I'm not mistaken, and I may be, both the tablets and the drops take 4 hours to be fully effective against viruses and cryptosporidium. The tablets take 30 minutes to substantially kill giardia and most other common bacteria. The drops take 15 minutes, plus the 5 minute preparation time for a similar level of protection. They aren't that different.

The drops in the amount of dose specified won't kill crypto after the 4 hours.

Aquamira can only call the tablets a "water purifier" The reason the tablets work is because it is a much larger dose. You could get the drops to work against crypto but you would need to use a larger dose etc.....

If the drops killed crypto with the specified number of drops per liter they would be able to call it a purifier also. They don't call the drops a purifier they call it "water treatment"

Just know that if you are using the drops as specified you won't kill crypto and the tablets take up to 4 hours.

The drops in the amount of dose specified won't kill crypto after the 4 hours.

Aquamira can only call the tablets a "water purifier" The reason the tablets work is because it is a much larger dose. You could get the drops to work against crypto but you would need to use a larger dose etc.....

If the drops killed crypto with the specified number of drops per liter they would be able to call it a purifier also. They don't call the drops a purifier they call it "water treatment"

Just know that if you are using the drops as specified you won't kill crypto and the tablets take up to 4 hours.

Not totally disagreeing with you, except that the drops WILL kill crypto at the standard dose - MAY take up to 7 hours if water is very cold.

I again site my trusty "Wilderness Medicine" text.

Under the heading of aqua mira/Pristine (Canada):

"A stabilized solution of chlorine dioxide is mixed with phosphoric acid, which activates the chemical and is then mixed with water for disinfection. Contact times for inactivation of Cryptosporidium by Pristine range from 15 minutes in warm water useing a triple dose to 7 hours using a single dose in very cold water."

Under the Comments section they discuss the lack of EPA registration as a purification method:

"Likely the EPA delay is related to performance in cold and dirty "worst case" test water, which may be an issue in disaster situations, but it is not often encountered by wilderness users."

In a general discussion of Chlorine Dioxide (AquaMira):

"Chlorine dioxide is capable of inactivating most water-borne pathogens, including Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts, at practical doses and contact times. It is at least as effective a bactericide as chlorine, and in many cases it is superior. It is far superior as a virucide. "

My take:

Infection with Cryptosporidium is fairly uncommon, and if it does occur in an otherwise healthy person, it is usually mild, not particularly dangerous, and usually runs it's course in 5-6 days. Folks with a compromised immune system are at a greater risk for a more severe illness.

I don't worry all that much about Crypto.

We are basicallly saying the same thing.

The drops won't always kill crypto in the 4 hours.

Either increase the dose or increase the time.

I agree that the chance of infection from crypto is slim.

ok these drops, and tablets and purifiers seem a bit confusing...im am now convinced I want the steri pen...seems simplest way to disinfect water....and render all living things inside water inactive making the water safe....im going for it....it only took reading 100 plus post to decide and im going to my public library to check out these books so i can get ready for my first over night trip in october

Quote from "Wilderness Medicine", Fifth Edition by Paul S Auerbach. page 1482:

"For a normothermic person, there is no reason not to "eat" snow as an auxiliary source of water. However, for a person close to being hypothermic or who is already hypothermic, eating snow may increase loss of body heat and exacerbate the medical condition."

It goes on to explain that if snow is the only source of water, and you have no means of melting it, you should compact it as much as possible, then eat in small quantities, making sure that it is fully melted in the mouth before swallowing. It also states that studies have shown some substantial lacerations and abrasions to the mucosa as a result of eating snow frequently.

Interesting, thanks for that citation. I have to admit it goes against everything I was ever taught, but that was quite a while ago.

But the steri pen doesn't do anything to clear up dirty looking water that has a lot of particles or other stuff in it. If you are always getting your water from clear sources then no problem.

There is no easy answer.

I still use a filter, MSR sweetwater. I have used this filter when it was owned by Sweetwater and called the Guardian. It has never let me down in all these years. I take some aquamira for backup and to also treat the water if it comes from a very questionable source after filtering.

Heavy and more protection then needed most of the time but I personally like to have completely clear and safe water to drink.










ok these drops, and tablets and purifiers seem a bit confusing...im am now convinced I want the steri pen...seems simplest way to disinfect water....and render all living things inside water inactive making the water safe....im going for it....it only took reading 100 plus post to decide and im going to my public library to check out these books so i can get ready for my first over night trip in october

But the steri pen doesn't do anything to clear up dirty looking water that has a lot of particles or other stuff in it. If you are always getting your water from clear sources then no problem.As stated several times in this and other steripen threads, that is generally not a problem on the AT. On the rare occasion (never has happened to me in 36 years of AT hiking) that it could, using a bandana, coffee filter, or piece of stocking hose will take care of the visible floaties, and the UV will take care of the invisible ones.

HHHmmmmm!!!!! Decisions, Decisions.

Now this is where it could get nasty. If you are sayin the Steripen uses UV to kill the particles, well, isn't that what we get from the light of the sun? If you are all ready getting the dose of UV from the sun it dosn't make since to carry something else that gives the same thing. Sounds like to me these manufacturers are just trying to sell something based on peoples fears and paranoia.

I thought thatwas the purpose of lightweight backpacking. Sounds like to me we are decreasing our weight for something else we really don't need.

I will stick to my good oh naturall ways. It is free and weighs nothing.

HHHmmmmm!!!!! Decisions, Decisions.

Now this is where it could get nasty. If you are sayin the Steripen uses UV to kill the particles, well, isn't that what we get from the light of the sun? If you are all ready getting the dose of UV from the sun it dosn't make since to carry something else that gives the same thing. Sounds like to me these manufacturers are just trying to sell something based on peoples fears and paranoia.

I thought thatwas the purpose of lightweight backpacking. Sounds like to me we are decreasing our weight for something else we really don't need.

I will stick to my good oh naturall ways. It is free and weighs nothing.Sounds like you need a little "boning up" on the UV water treatment process. Head on over to Steripen's sight and navigate to the voluminous information about the process, testing that's been done, etc. In a nutshell, most municipal water treatment plants incorporate UV treatment of water, so chances are what's coming out of your water faucet has gone through the same process, only they've also added chlorine. The UV does not kill buggies, it renders them sterile, and being unable to "colonize" in your body, the small amount you ingest cannot harm you.

I was talking to a friend in my Bible study group the other night . . . they were asking me a gazillion questions about backpacking and when asked what I did about my water, I told them I use a Steripen. They said "cool, on our mission trip to India, about half the group used Steripens and the other half didn't. The half that used them, no one got sick. Every single one of the people who didn't use them did."

I just picked up the classic steri pen a few days ago and used it on a 3 day trip on the AT this weekend. It seemed to work well and was easy to use. I liked it a lot. I was using a hiker pro pump before and brought it just in case I had some kind of a failure because I've read good and bad reviews for it. A few times I pre-filtered with a bandana and other times I just dipped my bottle in the creek. No problems at all and it was easier than my pump. I'm considering using it for my thru hike next year.

Simply not true for Aqua Mira, although a small minority of individuals have posted that they taste something. I'd definitely go with Aqua Mira over a filter, and the cost is much more reasonable than a Steri-Pen. The biggest challenge is to pre-filter out the big floaties before you fill your water bottle. I've used a mini-coffee filter with marginal success, but someone suggested a length of nylon panty hose which I'll this Fall.

the shoe stores have disposable nylon footies to use when trying on shoes i guess, they may let you have some, same as hose.