Ah, good to be back everyone:-)

Question- I'm trying to bring the most field-maintainable gear possible, and as far as water filtration goes- I'd rather not have a system that I can't fully clean anywhere.... I've seen the UV pens, but they require batteries to be replaced... I have found one system with a "porcelain element", which can be scraped clean, but it only prolongs the life of the filter, and would eventually have to be replaced regardless.... This is that one(and the best deal I've found for it!:-):

http://www.riverroadandtrail.com/Merchan...amp;Screen=PROD

Does anyone have a better filter suggestion? Thanks!

See this thread

http://forums.equipped.org/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=141560#Post141560

I use the Katydyn Combi and a SteriPen.

The Steripen can run off of batteries or 100% off a solar cell in case you have no batteries. It you go back to one of your old threads I tried to explain the reasoning behind this filter and the use of either a steripen or miox in your old thread.

See your old thread

http://forums.equipped.org/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Main=11466&Number=139102#Post139102

Katadyn Combi =$139.95
.2 micron filter 13000 gallons plus replaceable carbon granules for pesticides,chemicals, etc..

MSR MiniWorks EX = $66.95
.2 micron filter 2,000 liters (528 gallons) plus carbon
Replacement filter is $39.95 for every 528 gallons

http://www.geardirect.com/browse.cfm/4,2164.html

The Combi is still the best for the buck system in the long run.

13000 gallons / 528 gallons = 24.62 filters

You would go through 25 filters at a cost of $999 total (25 X 39.95) before you would change 1 filter on the combi.

The Katdyn Pocket filter is pretty much considered the "gold standard" for water filters, in my experience. But I really like my Sweetwater Microfilter and I've recently been using plain iodine lately, with no problems.

Jeff