first need purifier

“In a recent discussion about this filter someone said it used chlorine to disinfect water and I claimed it used silver impregnated matrix...we were both wrong

Here is a copy/paste directly from General Ecology's website. I underlined the pertinent information:

Manufactured in the USA from the finest raw materials, our water purifiers are ecologically and environmentally compatible; they purify naturally without adding chlorine, iodine or other pesticides to the water you drink and use in your foods and beverages. General Ecology's "Structured Matrix�" technology is independently certified to USEPA Purification Standards against all three classes of waterborne disease organisms - parasitic cysts, bacteria, and viruses - instantly, without pre/post treatment, without wasting water and without electricity. Outstandingly effective, they also remove chemical and aesthetic contaminants, providing superbly refreshing, spring-like water for a naturally healthy lifestyle.

http://www.generalecology.com/category/portable/product/first_need_xl_portable_water_purifier-new”

“Someone just needs to cut one of these damn things open and see what's goin' on inside there. I wonder if they use diatomaceous earth?

I've used these things and I'm surprised they don't sell them with the exercise equipment. LOL!”

“If you noticed I didn't get into the conversation!!!LOL! I just own one!!!”

“I have to agree Nigal...it is a great pec builder!

Spam I was looking at a water filter site that said that it was only good for about 150 gallons. If it was used to filter all the water for a group it wouldn't take long to reach this...especially with water full of glacial till.”

“Well it did it's job on the Alaska expedition and a few other trips so I guess I got my monies worth out of it...especially since I won it at traildays!!!LOL!”

“yeah you can beat free...”

“Is the "Purifier" different than my old First Need that is around 25 years old? I used to be a 97 lb. weakling. I cut one of the canisters open, charcoal like stuff, but pressed tight.”

“Yup, same one - can't be improved. If it's too hard to pump you can't lift a pack.

I've used mine since 1988 and changed the filter unit one. It's been used on glacial melt (another backpacking couple in the designated camping area told me I was crazy and just to dip and drink) and all over the Adirondacks.

The important thing for me is that it is a 'purifier' and removes viruses - I had Hep A twice as a kid.”

“They're a little on the weighty side if I recall correctly, but I never heard of anyone getting sick using one.

I did snap the handle off one once. MMMM-boy! Boiling water in July for the rest of the trip!   < G >  ”

“I replaced the filter on mine a couple times, did not affect muscles needed to operate that I could tell. The good point with it is, the best tasting water, the Hiker can't beat it.”

“I clogged mine in about five uses in south america. tried the backwashing feature to no avail and the pressure created a leak in the handle. when i got back into a town, i wrote first need about it. they said tough. the thing went in the garbage at the internet cafe.

that said, a lot of people seem to like them, just not me.”

“It beats my WaterWorks Ex”