Katadyn Combi water filter – trashed

I tried.

I tried to embrace the highly touted Katadyn Combi water filter.

But it is simply too “fussy”.

Something always goes wrong with this filter. It won’t pump. It won’t open. It needs cleaned too often.

I give up.

Many like the Combi, but I agree with this review:

I bought this because of its flow capacity, the dual filtering through carbon and ceramic elements, and its rugged appearance. I have taken it on three heavy-duty backpacking trips into the Adirondaks and the Laurentians of Quebec. The filter was quickly clogged by the dark waters in these regions. I was constantly scrubbing the ceramic element. Replacement elements are quite expensive. On the trail, its weight becomes noticeable. The casing of mine eventually broke. Maybe it works well on the kitchen tap, but it’s too expensive, too heavy, too much work, and not tough enough for the wilderness. I believe there are better values available.

rkylepalmer from Cranbury, NJ, USA – on OutdoorReview.com

Just bought a SweetWater – Microfilter on the advice of a local expert.

I’ll report back on how well it works after my next major hike.