Water filter trade-offs (and is there a larger version of the Sawyer Squeeze?)

Pristine tablets are effective against bacteria, virus and giardia, within 30 mins.  The risk of crypto is real so best to have some high certainty of the water source first

For filters, the EPA took “worst case” water (raw sewage) and determined the needed filter capabilities as follows:
• 99.9999% of Bacteria
• 99.9% of Protozoa (cysts)
• 99.99% of Viruses

These standards are the law for municipalities in the U.S. that deliver public drinking water.

The Platy quickdraw filters to 0.2 microns. 99.9999% of bacteria and 99.9% of protozoa

Gear Skeptic concluded that the Sawyer’s 0.1 micron is only a significant risk reducer if you spend months on trail drinking junk water.  Some cite the CDT.  When I talk with CDT through hikers they tell me that the perceived prevalence of raunchy cow water is vastly overstated.

Why not pills? Taste, Time, gut biome impact.

Having consumed treated water at home for 75 years, I don’t notice a significant taste impact. Depending on the water source, CD may actually improve the taste. And if you drink “city” water while home, gut biome impact should be minimal. The time impact can be managed on trail.

I love these kinds of posts… A vs B vs C.  It seems that no matter the subject, each option usually has a more or less equal number of proponents.