Imagin, I have had the same thoughts. From what limited research I have done (and PLEASE don't depend on what I have done), the ones with the greatest filtering/purifying abilities (meaning they have the smallest pore size filters) are the First Need XL and the Sawyer filters.

Here are a couple links for ya.

http://www.sawyer.com/products.htm

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

These links should help lead you to more reviews from actual users, not from the manufacturers websites.

And yes, the Katdyn filters, specifically the Hiker gets a lot of good press.

Last edited by SkunkHunter; 01/20/12 06:09 AM.
If you’re not Paranoid, You’re
not paying attention
Be a Sheepdog
JYD#105