MSR Miniworks

I purchased my first filter in the mid 1990's.  After spending considerable time exploring filters, I decided on the MSR Miniworks.  The Miniworks has been my go to filter ever since.

At the time there were basically two types of filters available to me as a backpacker.  A synthetic cartridge or a ceramic cartridge.  Neither cartridge was good for viruses, but in the area where I backpack viruses are not an issue.  Both types of cartridges were .2 micron.  The major difference, flow rate and gallons of water per cartridge.

Flow rate:  Since I am backpacking and not rushing to any destination, flow rate did not really matter.  In fact, I found that I quite enjoy the break of sitting at a stream, watching the scenery while filtering some water.

Cartridge life and replacement life: Life then became the major factor in my decision between synthetic and ceramic.  Ceramic wins in cartridge life.

Having made my decision to go with a ceramic cartridge, I then needed to decide on a filter.  At the time, the two filters available to me for purchase where either the Katadyn Pocket, or the MSR Miniworks.  The Pocket rate really high in gallons filtered per cartridge, but the cost of the Pocket and replacement cartridge was also very high.  The Miniworks was significantly cheaper, and replacement cartridges where also cheaper.  The gallons per filter were also significantly lower.

What tipped the scales was the fact that the Miniworks attaches directly to a wide mouth bottle or dromedary bag, while the Pocket requires good aim from the spout.

Now a couple of decades later, I have not had to replace the cartridge.  I have not had a failure in either the filter body or the cartridge.  The built in charcoal filter takes unwanted taste and scent from the water.  Did I make the correct choice? I believe I did.