Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I have used this filter on several multi day trips and have come to the conclusion that it's a poor filter design. While it hasn't left me without water, it has become a chore to get any. It has only been used in extremely clean mountain lake and stream water and been treated with kid gloves. It only takes but a few liters for it to slow to a crawl and take forever to pump, then a cleaning will produce moderate water for another few liters. Even when new and completely clean it seemed to take forever just to fill one bottle. More of a nuisance than it's worth.

Ran into some one on the trail that let me try their First Need XL and there was no comparison. It totally blew this piece of junk away. Filled the bottle in about 20 seconds with ease. Needless to say I know what will be getting returned and what I'll be getting instead.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

Have used this and others backpacking in US and overseas for years. This is by far the best, even if it is a bit heavy. Easy to use and clean but carry some extra tubing since even a small hole makes it nearly useless.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I use this product every weekend it might not pump the water the fastest like some smaller ones that boast of fast output but at least i know that it takes the time to clean my water love it wouldnt trade it for any other

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I had used an older version of this water filter and was pleased with it. I bought this filter for my backpacking trips and I am very disappointed in this filter. It takes me over 30 minutes to filter 1L of water. I've put a brand new filter in it, primed it and nothing seems to make a difference. Needless to say this water filter is being junked and I'll be buying a Katadyn instead.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I lucked out and found one of these filters at a REI members 'garage sale' for a steal. Included was the return tag stating the previous owner brought it back because it was "too hard to pump." All it needed was a new replacement filter, and it has since exceeded all my expectations.

First I will respond to some earlier negative posts: It is heavy, but much lighter than packing water with you. The carbon/ceramic filter weighs more that some newer options, but please keep in mind that the carbon can remove contaminants, like fertilizers, pesticides and metals, something the UV pens or new hollow fiber filters can't do! I also doubted how long the plastic housing would hold up, but it has been used for years and even been frozen without any problems. Pumping the filter can be a workout when filling a big dromedary bag, but if does get really hard to pump, that is a signal that you need to clean off the filter (it's doing the job!)

To prevent frequent cleaning streamside, take the time to adjust the floatie on the tube so the inlet is off the bottom. Also using the filter in fast-moving water will make it clog more quickly because there is more sediment present. After filling my bottles and bags for the evening, I use a pocket bucket to take some water back to camp to filter for morning coffee. Like some other posters, I play it safe and have always used Sweetwater chlorine drops before or after filtering. I have never been sick from water in the backwoods.

The filter has some great features like the 'Airspring' which fills part of the filter on the upstroke, using energy which would otherwise be wasted and improving the flow. Also the ability to attach the filter directly to wide-mouth bottles and dromedary bags is a feature I wouldn't live without. I consider this filter an essential part of my gear, and would gladly pay the retail price knowing how it performs. I would highly recommend this filter for anyone planning a long trip when you need to maintain your gear in the field, and can't afford to lose small parts or chase bottles downstream.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

After a trip to the Olympic Peninsula for a few nights we all had several liters of water filtered with the MSR Miniworks filter none of us had any issues with taste or sickness. We did not buy the EX, which is just an additional treatment one may buy bringing the price up to the EX, and we still haven't had a problem. The pump is quick and durable. The only complaint is how weak the ceramic filter core is. I wish they would have secured it in another fashion, but I think we may have received a defective one anyway. I will be returning it and trying the same unit since we thought it worked well... other than that all we can do is be extra EXTRA careful while cleaning it.
On another note, I don't think it needs cleaning after each use. I filled a 2.5 gallon bladder and a 2 liter bottle and there was no sign of it slowing the filtration process. Nice clean northwest water may be the reason, but I wouldn't clean it anymore than is necessary for reliability reasons. Boiling drinking water is a pain and one can run out of fuel quick doing it.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I have had this pump for several years. It is durable, extremely reliable, and easy to clean in the field. I expect that the ceramic filter will last me many more years, at the least. However, it gets clogged frequently with muddy water, requiring frequent cleaning. It filters slow, at times, and requires a lot of work to pump it. The water it produces tastes great, usually. I went hiking recently with someone who had a Katadyn Pro. I was impressed with the speed and ease of that filter (it practically flowed like a hose!), but the water did not seem to taste quite as good. I also don't know if the Katadyn is as reliable or easy to use? However, using the Katadyn definitely made me think twice about this filter. If I had to do it over, I am not sure which I would choose.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I have been using this filter for the past 4 years putting it through a vast variety of situations from running mountain streams to Florida swamps to rivers and lakes in the jungles of South and Central America. The filter is built tough and, while I tend to treat all my equipment with tender care to insure longevity, I always get the feeling this piece of equipment could take considerable abuse. I've read somewhere that the Katadyn Pocket is worth the higher initial investment because the filter has such an incredibly long life, 13,000 gallon on the average. What they're not calculating is continuously replacing a charcoal filter that has a much shorter life. This filter has charcoal built into the ceramic filter and is why the water filtered through it tastes so good. A great filter well worth the few extra ounces. It's easy to clean and that's all it takes to get the pumping volume back up when you notice it getting too slow. Add a Steri-pen to this and you have fresh clean good tasting water free of both bascteria and virus. MSR rules!

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I love this guy. Easy to clean and affordable. It's not as bad as others say. At least not the one I have. However. I think the pumping is a bit slow and it could be improved.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

This is the first and only filter I own, so when we bought it we ran the numbers on expense, weight, filter cost, etc... and this filter won out. The "hyper-flow" had not come out yet. It works well, but I have a slight complaint about pumping it. You cant pump it very fast, or the pump cavitates (sorry for the engineering words). You have to pull handle, wait briefly for water to fill the chamber, and push the handle. It is just slightly bulky too. However, it works, hasn't made me sick, and packs easily enough. If I could do it again, I might try the hyperflow instead, although I think the filter replacment on the hyperflow is significantly higher and more frequent.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I've all my experience with this filter in the mountains and it seems to be able to hold its own up there. I'd much rather spend 5 min filling water bottles than waiting 4 hr. for chlorine to kill everything. By backpacking I mean for group treks where it is used as group equipment. One big downside is the ceramic can break if your not careful but other than that its fine.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

We have had this little guy for over 2 years now, and I think it was well worth the money. After reading the directions, use and cleaning is fairly straight forward. I find that this product really does clean the water very well, considering my husband and I have used it in some pretty muddy water. I definitely have a harder time pumping it than my husband, but the fact that it is lightweight and compact in its little bag definitely counterbalance that. We have used it on a few trips now, and it has held up very well.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

When I first used my filter I did not read the instructions and immediately found the pump to be extremely hard to operate. Go to instructions and read that pump will vapor lock and must be air primed before starting. Throw hose in water, pump till hard, pull hose out pump till easy, throw hose back in water.... Its all good. If the Marines choose this filter it must be good eh ?

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I bought this after reading all the good reviews and took it on a week long Kings Canyon backpacking trip with some friends. It worked great the first couple times but then I noticed the filter would quickly become clogged. I thought that was normal until I noticed that my friends water filter (of a different brand) never needed to be cleaned and he was done filling his bottle in 1 minute when it took me about 5! I thought his was broken but his water tasted just as good. Needless to say mine went to the bottom of the pack after the continuous cleaning got old and never saw the light of day again. If you like cleaning filters this is a great water filter.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

This is the best way to filter water. I take it on every trip, no more pills. Everyone in my group uses it to fill their bottles. It fits perfectly on to my bottles and my MSR Cloudliner. It is easy to pump, easy to clean, and is very light to carry. You have to get one of these.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

This is a great little filter. I love the fact that the nalgene's and MSR camel back screw right to the filter do you don't have to worry about holding the bottle your are filtering into. Also it is very easy to clean, you just unscrew it and whipe it down and rinse it off and your good to go. I have had it clog up in some silty streams but a quick cleaning made it flow good again. I have used this for the last year on over 10 different trips and never gotten sick or had problems filtering water. Use in conjunction with the Sweet Water drops

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

This is a freakin super filter. If in the beginning you have problems with it just read the little manual. If its hard to pump just clean it. If that doesn't work just re lube the o ring and moving parts. Very simple, very effective, tastes great. I took it on a two week trip out west and i was pleased to say the least. If you think its too heavy your not man...

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

This filter is great, it pumps the water quick, and I really love the fact that you can just screw it onto a nalgene or right onto your MSR water bladder. Makes it spill proof and lets your use both hands for pumping. Ive watched my friends use their different filters and try to hold their nalgene in between their knees and then watched them dump out all their water on accident.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

Im not sure what Im doing wrong but this is the 2nd filter in 2 weeks. Both filters will suck air on the up stroke and when you push the handle is has to compress the air before water moves making it slow to filter water. Both filters were brand new. It takes nearly 15 minutes to filter 1 gallon.

I am returning it.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

This is yet another great product by MSR. Filters fast, water tastes great, and it can be maintained in the field which is possibly the greatest feature. It takes me longer to unpack the filter from my pack and screw my Nalgene on than it does to fill the bottle up. Only cons I would say it has is it is a little heavy, but it is well worth the weight. The stuff sack it comes with is a great way to keep everything organized. Great filter, I would buy it again.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

A little difficult to pump at times. Sometimes I feel the need to back off in fear of breaking something. But I'm assuming if it's difficult to pump, that might be better? Easy to take apart and maintain in the field, big plus.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

Great filter used it for about 2 years now with no complaints or problems. As long as you keep it clean it will pump accurately. Great product from a great company.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I had this unit out on my first trip and it broke. It began spewing water from the connection to the nalgeen bottle and my MSR blader. The bladder is awesome I got a two litre but the filter is horrible. Almost everyone I've spoken to that has owned one for any decent period of time said that this filter has problems. My friend has constant issues with ceramic filter cracking. I am going to try out the Vario by katadyn.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

Works great!!!! I had samples tested in a lab to field verify filtration. I have never had an issue with it. My only complaint it’s bulky and weighs over a pound dry.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

Have used this filter in the Himalayas where there is a lot of silt in the water and in the US where the water is relatively clear. Easy to clean and very rugged. A little heavy, but worth the weight.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I love this filter. I have had mine for about 5 years and it still works great. If it is too hard to pump I just clean off the filter, rinse it, and am ready to go. No matter how nasty the unfiltered water looks, the filtered water always tastes great. This is one of my favorite pieces of equipment. The only reason I am not giving it 5 stars is because it is a little heavy. However, it is well worth it.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I've owned this filter for about 4 years, used it on numerous trips, and learned that Sweetwater's aren't all that great after all. Everyone I backpack with owns the Sweetwater. I'm the lone Mini-works EX owner, and pretty proud of it. I set up faster, pump faster, and clean faster than my fellow packers. My only gripe is you have to be pretty careful when scrubbing the ceramic filter. I managed to crack mine when I got a little "frisky" with the scrubby pad and doing the old "indian burn" washing method to the filter. I would recommend scrubbing in an up-and-down motion, and you'll be fine.

Those members of my group who carry the Sweetwater inevitably use my Mini-Works EX because of the speed and convenience. And, if you find that it pumps too slow for your taste, then scrub the filter, you big dope! It'll work just fine for you! Geeze, some people....

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I was happy with the product while it lasted, which was about seven years. We had significant issues with the o-ring blowing out of the casing the last four days of last years Boundary Waters trip. We were able to reinsert it and pump some more before it would happen again. I don't think as was as much an issue with the o-ring as with the casing. I will be buying another shortly for two upcoming trips.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

GREAT FILTER. I JUST GOT THIS AND USED IT ON 35 MILE HIKE WITH 20 OTHER KIDS AND ADULTS. THIS WILL FILLTER H20 BOTTELS ALL DAY LONG. IF YOU WANT SAFE, CLEAR, GOOD TASTING WATER THIS IS THE ONE. BESIDES BY THE TIME I GET DONE CARRYING ALL THE KIDS EXTRA GEAR WHATS A FEW MORE ONCES.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I remember Back when filters pumped in a l;inear fasion and were not fitted to nalgene bottles. When I bought My first Mini works I loved these new features. It made pumping easier because I no longer had to blance my bottle while pumping my water. It takes me half the time to fill up a quart bottle than any katedyn I have ever owned. Since I adventure in locations with various naturally occuring pollutants it is nice to have a ceramic filter that sieves out all my concerns including heavy metals. I am an avid ultra light backpacker but I am OK with having a heavier filter. I would not buy any other product period.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I got this great pump for back country in San Berdino/ San gorganio wilderness area. I've never had a problem at all! Weight is good for the excelent water quality, my two boys 13 and 10 love pumping crystal clean water!

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

Have had this filter for 9 years and still love it. Pumped side-by-side with other major brands in backcountry potholes (brown water) and water came out of MSR clean and fresh - unlike the other brands tried. Easily maintained in the field. If it is hard to pump you should disassemble and clean it. I wouldn't trust my safety to any other filter.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I've had mine many years and never had a problem with it. If it's getting hard to pump then just open it up, scrub the filter clean and it works like new all over again. It takes up space in the pack but I'm afraid to try something smaller because I feel that there is no way it will work as well. Nothing like freshly pumped water out of a cold stream!!!

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

The unit screws directly into widemouth nalgene bottles and some water bladders. Then you just put the hose into a water source and start pumping. Unit is very robust but also a little heavy for backpacking use.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

This unit is heavy, but it filters great tasting water and is fairly compact. I am overly satisfied with this product. On my most recent trip to the Olympic Nat'l Forest it even filtered out the brown stain in the water created by the tannin in the tree bark. I was very impressed. I use it quite often and have had no problems with it yet, nor have I needed to replace the cartrige yet.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I'm super satified with this filter. Easy to maintain. Best tasting water of my life!

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

Miniworks is easy to use, attaching right on to a nalgene, and then pumping water through a fairly small filter/chamber quickly yet producing a clean good tasting water. Packs well, easy to use/clean and lasts a long time. Ive had mine for 5 years and not yet replaced filter (almost due). if taken care of will last and work well. What i dont like its that people try to filter mud, pump to quickly or use it improperly and complain... if operated correctly with prober filter at start of tubbing will work every time. I rinse mine off after each use, and after trip is over scrub filter allow it to dry and store it.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

This unit broke down on me in the backcountry. Fortunately there were other backpackers who let me filter some water by the time I got to the lake. I don't know what I would've done if this was a more isolated trail. This is a disappointing product by MSR.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I was fairly happy with this filter until it broke on me. If i hadn't been so upset, I'd wouldn't have smashed it and angrily tossed it into the woods. Yes I feel bad about that and i'm doing my penance for not packing it out...won't happen again. Plus I could have returned it to REI [...].Anyway, the one-way valve busted on it from the pressure accumulated on pushing the water through the filter. I usually clean the filter after 1 gallon at most so it shouldn't have been overly dirty to create so much backpressure.Also, it takes far too much pumping to filter just one liter. Working the pump handle is almost harder than hiking with 50 lbs on your back through the mountains...at least to your arm.Anyonen carrying one of these filters should be very cautious and carry a backup couple of chlorine dioxide or iodine tablets just in case.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I have taken this filter on two major hikes. the first was for a round island hike of Isle Royale national park and where some of the water tended to be downright disgusting and it was proven when the fitler would have to be cleaned 2 times a day from just a buildup of what i can best describe as gunk. the other trip was this past summer when i ventured into the appalations the filter lasted me the entire 700 mile portion i hiked and was very reliable. I believe this is the best filter for geting extremely clean water when in the backcountry even if it takes a little more then a min. to pump a litter of water. Another quality product by MSR!

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I have had this filter for almost 7 years now and it has never failed me. It does pump a bit slower than other filters but where your drinking water is concerned, its just fine to take a little extra time. I have even filtered salt water with this thing. The filter is easy to clean and maintain in the field.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

The good:

Very fast setup. There is no output hose; attach your threaded water bottle or bag to the bottom of the filter and start pumping. When finished, the intake hose conveniently wraps around the filter and you are ready to go. It is easier to avoid water contamination because of this.

The less desirable:

Compared to my MSR Sweetwater filter: The ceramic filter wears out more quickly. The throughput is far lower. More goes wrong with the pump assembly and I have to dissemble and rebuild it all of the time. The handle requires more force and must be moved more slowly. It is much bigger and heavier; traits not enduring to backpackers.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I have had this filter for about 5 years now. I generally use it on multiday backbacking trips. What I like most, is that I feel confident it cleans the water. Other filters are certainly faster, and might be better with large groups of people. Personally for drinking water, I would rather spend a little more time and get better quality water. I have had some problems with it clogging, but this can be avoided by maintaining it properly.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

Uggh! We used this for a week in the Porcupine Mountains and after 2 days, it became almost impossible to use. We tried to clean the filter, which lasted about 1 liter of water, and then it clogged again. I tried to put a bandana over the intake as a prefilter, and it was more of the same, and it even began to shoot water out of the side at one point. Everything else I own by MSR is top notch so I was surprised by the lackluster performance of their water filters. The Sweetwater filter did the same thing. BOO! I'll stick to my trusty PUR Hiker.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

Tried and true!! Fairly light. Not as light as the the Steri-pen but more versatile.No batteries!
Best tasting water!

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

This filter offers a lot of resistance to bacteria and parasites. Unlike the paper filters which you clog and have to buy a new one this one you just scrape away. The airspring accumulator is a nice feature it continues to push water through after I have finished pumping. If you are worried about viruses treat your water with Msr sweet water chlorine drops before filtering. I have used this filter a lot and filtered some pretty distgusting water and not gotten sick. This filter is nice that I can take it apart in the field and clean it with no tools.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

This filter offers a lot of resistance unlike the paper filters. I have filtered some pretty distgusting water and not gotten sick. It is very easy to clean and the filter can be cleaned over and over it lasts for years.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

My guide service bought these for all of their leaders. On my first trip out it clogged in mostly clear water. I attempted to clean it with the brush and it moderately improved performance. After trying it for a few weeks I went back to my MSR SweetWater. I found it much easier to pump and clean. Too bad MSR didn't put what they learned from the SweetWater to the MiniWorks.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I purchased this filter after significant research and was surprised to find the product malfunctioned on day 2 of 11 days in back country trip in Wyoming. Even folks we ran into on the trail familiar with the model could not figure out what had gone wrong. One couple said they had had problems with their MiniWorks in the past and bought the Water Works to replace it (which they liked). Luckily, we had enough iodine to keep drinking safe water (always bring more than enough iodine!). [...] I was very disappoint with the MiniWorks and would not recommend it. There are less fancy but more dependable water purifiers out there.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

Lightweight and easy to maintain, this pump is a lifesaver. Only downside is the 1 lpm pump time, could be faster like some pumps. Otherwise works great!

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

So far, this hasn't let me down. Pumping it requires some effort, but a solid filter.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

It is lightweight, and always performs. I have used in the Grand Canyon, in the Porcupines, in the Smokeys, and on the Wonderland Trail @ Mt. Rainier. I would NOT leave home without it. It is a NECCESSITY. Does need to be cleaned, but it is user friendly and I have never got sick on the Trail.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

Even though it is a bit bulky, I found this filter to be worth the extra space. Easy cleaning in the field and pumps easily if properly cleaned. Water tastes great. I would be concerned about freezing but I don't take this winter camping. I use the collapsible bucket that another reviewer mentioned and this does increase the length of time between filter cleanings.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

This water filter is small, compact and easy to use - I take it with me on all my backpacking trips, never had a problem

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

The Miniworks might be considered by some to be the best gear option for water filtration. The bottom is threaded to screw into most "nalgene" style bottles, and even some bladders.This filter is not ultralight, but is still very light considering how fast the filtration system works. Another advantage is the ease at which this filter can be taken apart and cleaned.I've been using mine for several years now, and at ([$] on sale) you won't find more bang for your buck.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I've used this for backpacking and long day hikes. It does take time and effort to fill my 3 liter resevoir, but not longer than I would expect.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I like this filter a lot. It can be totally broke down for easy cleaning. I pumps well and attaches (via screwing on) to the wide mouthed Nalgene bottles. I wish MSR would make an adapter so you could use it with the narrow mouthed bottles. That shouldn't be too hard for them to do...how 'bout it MSR?

A bit bulky for light/fast alpine ascents, but for general backpacking/camping, it is all the filter you'll ever need!

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

easy to clean but hard to pump

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

This is one of two filters that helped our party of 6 survive 6 days backpacking in the grand canyon. mostly because it can be cleaned in the field to improve flow when it gets clogged and slow to filter. also, really like the fact that it screws directly onto water bottles of the nalgene width and thus you dont need an outlet hose.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

Outstanding five star filter when used with MSR hydration systems. Totally field maintainable and always able to return to original flow rate. When faced with sediment filled water I use the 3 gallon Seattle Sports Bucket that just weighs a few ounces and folds down to less then the size of a fist and let the sediment settle a few moments before I pump. As a result I go a long time between filter cleanings as well as having a much more comfortable place to filter my water. Started with the original Water Works II eons ago and switched over to the Mini Works years ago without a single problem and very fast flow rates.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

It does need to be cleaned when pumping dirty water, has not failed me yet, i have owned others in the past pumps a little slow but tast great and is well worth the price

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

Not as lightweight & compact as some of the other brands, but I prefer this one.
Very easy to use & clean. I feel it is very durable, just don't drop the ceramic filter.
No problem with the taste of water after filtering.
Make sure you let the filter dry out after use.
I feel with proper care it will last a very long time. Wouldn't trade it.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

Bitterly cold evening, pumping by a lake, I watched someone with a different pump start after me and finish before me. It's one thing to ignore those side by side speed purification tests when you're in a store, but when your fingers are screaming from the cold...

Once had it crack on me during an unexpectedly cold night; finished that trip with a bout of giardia (or something like giardia.)

Some MSR gear is great; this filter is awful.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

This is a great filter - very field maintainable, very effective, easy to clean.

Downside: Weight & bulk is more than most filters. Ceramic filter element weighs more than paper, and is susceptible to freezing/breaking if dropped.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I have the MSR miox and wife hated the taste so I purchased a Katadyn filter and it broke first trip. My brother recomended this one and after we tried it, it was tons better than any other we have seen. The fact it has the ceramic filter is one of the biggest pros. A paper filter clogging on the trail is the end of that pumps life for that trip. Not ceramic, clean and reinstall, good as new.Plus, no bad taste with the charcoal ceramic filter.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

This filter did the trick for me. It's very easy to disassemble and clean. It shuts down when it gets done, so it's a good indication of when to replace the filter. I found it easy to pump and it produces an average flow for the filtration granularity.

I dig it though, the ceramic means it lasts longer without replacement, and field serviceable means less headaches

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

The water filter works great. Depending on the clarity/etc. of the water you are filtering, you can go quite a few liters before having to clean the filter, and even then, it's easy to do. I personally like the taste of the water more than using the iodine pills (even with the neutralizer), but that's just me.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

A great filter for the weight and bulk. It screws onto the widemouth nalgenes and the MSR Dromolite waterbladders for easy, hasslefree pumping. A little on the slow side, but who is in a rush when your relaxing by a nice river or stream getting some fresh water

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I've used my MiniWorks on numerous trips through the Sierra Nevadas and it's always come through for me--even when filtering water of dubious quality.

It took a few tries until I got a handle on efficient pumping, but that was a minor hurdle. I was initially concerned about cleaning, but the MiniWorks comes apart with ease and reassembly is a snap.

In summary, a great tool for providing fresh water.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

Worked good for the BWCA and the Superoir Hiking Trail, water tasted good even in bad water, easy to clean and take apart in the field.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

This filter has come thorugh when other brands have failed on multi-person backpacking trips. You know when it needs to be cleaned because pumping becomes harder. Cleaning is a breeze. I wrap a piece of foam rubber over the intake to limit clogging from sediment. If there is a lot of sediment, it helps to put water in a pot, let the sediment settle, and filter from just below the water surface. I clean and then boil the filter cartridge after each trip, and after four trips of about a week each, the filter cartridge still has a lot of life left in it.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

This filter does it's job very well. I've gone through several replacemnet cartridges and the filter itself has been very durable. It does pump out water fairly slow at times and needs to be cleaned too often. This filter is very easy to clean because all of the parts come apart so easily. I've used other filters that may pump the water faster, but when they break down, it's almost impossible to fix. I've never had a problem with the MSR filter and i've never had the beaver fever...

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I just took a trip to the BWCA and we had a couple of these MSR Miniworks filters. First of all we had three of the exact same filters. That should say a lot right there. There is a lot of iron in the water up there so it does need regular cleaning. It comes with a scrub pad that works well. I used my knife to take off the first layer gently and then the scrub pad. Just like new every time. I really like the size and weight. Not too big just right. I would highly advise anyone to get this filter. [...]

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

Another great product from MSR. While on the trail its very reliable and I know that its doing the job. Like most pumps it does take time to fill up your 4 liter bladder, but compared to others that I have used it is even faster. Being able to screw it directly to my Nalgene and my bladder is probably the best feature of any pump I have ever seen or used. Great Product.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

we are totally dependent on this thing! once in NZ we had to pump from a brown, murky puddle and out came nothing but pure water! it is easy to use and fits nicely onto wide-mouth nalgenens and camelback water bottles.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

A very reliable filter, that aside from routine cleaning, has been maintenance-free for me. Yeah, you need to clean/scrub the ceramic filter element every couple of days in the back country - but the fact that it's clogging proves that it's working by trapping all the nasty bio-stuff.

Filtered alpine water tastes like it should - delicious! The hinged pump arm seems more efficient than a T-handle, vertical pump and the threaded Nalgene bottle/bladder attachment makes quick work of water gathering chores.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I really like it but it does clog rather easily. I have found that if the water is somewhat clean it works great.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

Bombproof as anything on the market. Slightly heavier than certain other brands but far more reliable. Worth the extra 2 or 3 ounces. I've used this for the past six years without any problems while my companions have had multiple issues with competing brands. Simple to clean, simple to use. Efficient and reliable. I've used this in algae infested muck of Lake Erie and the pristine waters of Lake Superior with no problems at all. Hey, if it makes Lake Erie "sewage" safe and clean tasting what more could you ask for? My liver and immune system thanks MSR for making this outstanding product!

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

Easy to use, clean, and maintaine. Durable and long lasting.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

this pump is compact, lightweight and works just fine. high maintenance is the only problem. the filter needs to be clean in order to pump right.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

This pump is great. It is very practical and easy to use. It pumps a little slow but thats expected. It is the only filter i use

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

Many of my friends have had problems with their filters...tough to clean in the field, breaking on trail, etc. I've never had a problem with this filter. This is a bit slower filtering than others I've used, but it's still my preference. Super easy to clean & the ceramic filter lasts for ages.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I love this filter, simple, works great and great tasting water. One huge problem that almost left me drinking untreated water on a backpacking trip:The orange umbrella valve failed and got a tear in it somehow after only about 15-20 Nalgene bottles filled. Well, it failed on me in the backcountry..and after a hour of layering superglue(thank god I had it) I got it to filter again(slowly). The worst part is this valve cannot be replaced without going through MSR, its the only seal/valve not included in the field maintenance kit. If it goes out on me again, I will be switching to another filter..it could have been a fluke and hopefully wont happen again. All in all I love this filter, MSR should include an extra umbrella valve in the maintenance kit is all!

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

We used this filter during a backpacking trip, and it worked great. We filtered water from moving streams without a lot of sediment, and the pump was fast, easy to use, and very easy to clean. The fact that it attaches easily to Nalgene bottles is a huge plus.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

This setup is easy to use and easy to maintain, but it's kind of bulky to pack. Pumping it can feel awkward at first, if you've got it screwed onto a Nalgene. It also leaks, if it's getting close to needing cleaning, which means anything you've already filtered is suspect. I also use a UV pen just in case, because of this.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

A GREAT filter that provides great-tasting water! Easy to use in large or small water sources...no need to use small containers to fill larger containers! Connects directly to Nalgene widemouth openings for convenient filling.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

Lightweight. Though it clogs after 4-5 uses, cleaning is easy.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

i love this filter, easy to use, easy to clean, easy to fix, and darn it, it's an MSR which i would choose first over most other brands....cause you know your getting quality.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

This is a very good pump, especially if you're looking for something reliable. The only problem I had was that it has to be cleaned very often if you're pumping water close to shore. Otherwise it works great and has never let me down.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

Great filter, I much prefer this design over older push up and down type filter that I previously owned and which broke during a trip. I usually pump 5 gallons of water at a time, I wouldn't want to go back to the older filter design. So far mine has been going strong for 3 years. It is very easy to clean and I haven't replaced the filter cartridge yet. I was worried initially about the durability of plastic but it has held up to use. Only complaint is the initial investment, but it is worth it.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

Works very well for the price. Filter is very easy to clean out in the field. Easy to pump and havent spent more than 4 minutes to fill up a nalgene

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I have used it on several hikes but only in clear mountain streams and lakes. It has performed marvelously and have not needed to scrub the ceramic filter yet. Very easy to take apart. Perfect for the beginner or the advanced backcountry adventurer.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

I've used this pump on trips to China, Russia, India, SE Asia, South America and right here in the good ole USA. It works!!

We've found that for a 6 to 9-month trip, one filter could get two people through the trip, pumping tap water every day. We never got sick. We saved thousands of plastic bottles that would otherwise have littered the world's cities and country side.

The filter is easy to clean. (Don't scrub hard with the scrubby that comes with the pump. You only need to brush the discoloration off the filter. We've found an old toothbrush works perfectly without scratching the ceramic surface.) You know when it's time to clean the pump when pumping gets harder to do.

Overall, we can pump a liter of water in about 2 minutes. (And build up those pecks in the process).

Disadvantages we've seen with other smaller pumps are that it takes up to 5 minutes to pump a liter. The pull to just go buy bottled water is higher when your pumping time is so long.

The pump is sturdy. We've never had a part break and we have dropped it.

One note, if the pump gets odd smelling you can boil it (place it in the water as it's being brought to a boil), or pump water with a few drops of GSE through it to keep it fresh. This has only happened to us once when we had to pump pond water.

This is a winning pump!

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

This is my first water filter. I was a little nervous about drinking the water I was pumping, but I lived! Not sure of the taste as I covered it up with some powdered sports drink mix. This pump did a great job though, and saves you from having to carry a lot of water in your pack! After a couple nights out, it did require a cleaning as the filter was starting to clog, but that was easy to do.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

As long as you don't filter water that has fine sediment, you won't have to clean it often. Fine sediment can make it through the pre filter on the tube's intake and quickly clogs the ceramic filter (about 4-6 liters). Other than that this thing is great!

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

Love this filter. Water taste better than bottled water. Little hard to pump but worth it's weight in gold. Will last a lifetime with proper care.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

This turned out to be a great filter. I have used many in the past by PUR and Katadyn and this out did them all. If you're looking for a fast, easy to pack filter, this is it.

Comments about MSR MSR MiniWorks EX Filter:

This thing will practically filter mud. I've been using the Mini-Works for 3 years now and never had a failure. I've filtered water/mud from the Colorado river in the Grand Canyon where we had 3 other peoples filters fail from our group and mine became the group filter. It's best feature is the ceramic cartridge which is field maintainable, just take the included scrub pad and lightly go over the filter, 10 seconds of cleaning and it will pump like new again. I never need to worry when bringing this filter, it is just flat out reliable. It may not be the lightest or pump the fastest, but I'll take dependability and durability over both of those. I lighter pump thats pumps faster does no good when it fails you 30 miles into a trip.