MSR Guardian Water Purifier for Backcountry Use
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30,000 reviews
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50+ products
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Camping & Hiking Water Filters
Experiential insights by users
About MSR Guardian Water Purifier for Backcountry Use
Overall Feedback:
77% positive
74% praised for its long-lasting durability, while 26% experienced a shorter lifespan
In the backcountry, our first pump failed and leaked so badly that we couldn't capture any filtered water.
I have noticed that the pin-piston attachment point is subject to heavy loading due to resistance as the water is drawn into the purifier. The plastic pin-piston attachment is not strong enough to withstand repeated loading and will fail due to stress and fatigue.
Rephrased: The plastic pin-piston attachment is not strong enough to withstand repeated loading due to resistance as water is drawn into the purifier, leading to stress and fatigue.
69% appreciated its easy cleaning, while 31% found it high maintenance
It is easy to strip down for cleaning, but it is not necessary unless it has had a lot of use in really nasty water.
The filter is easy to use with a durable, self-cleaning design and high flowrate.
I have to clean the miniworks every 28-29 strokes due to sediment.
71% found it easy to using, while 29% had difficulties
I appreciate the ease of use of this water filter. I was surprised by how fast the filtered water comes out and that it fits my Nalgene bottle perfectly. I don't have to mess with bags or wait around for gravity to work.
It is easy to strip down for cleaning, but it is not necessary unless I have used it in really nasty water for a long time.
I loved the ease of the pump but was surprised when a plastic seal broke during use.
74% appreciated its effectiveness, but 26% questioned its effectiveness
The water quality is better than straight from my tap at home.
I examined the product and concluded that the plastic pin-piston attachment will fail due to stress and fatigue from repeated loading.
79% liked its lightweight and compact design, but 21% found it bulky
I love the portability of the filter. I can easily drop by and clean someone's water so they can drink it themselves or give it to someone else.
I have carried this product on hikes where I needed to treat water quickly. It is heavier than water treatment drops, tablets, or some of the lighter filters.
The filter is not suitable for backpacking due to its heavy and large size.
67% liked its ability to filter large quantities of water, while 33% found it limited
Using these filters is much easier than carrying the weight of extra water.
The filter body weighs 490g without the hose assembly or clean cap.
