First Need Deluxe Purifi

Though I have only used one other water filter, the First Need by far exceeds performance of the other one I used (MSR). I have taken it on 3 week long trips of 3-4 people and the flow is just now starting to slow. With the MSR, we pumped 2 bottles, and had to disassemble it and clean it. What a pain the MSR was.

I've lost directions on cleaning my FN filter, so not sure if you just back flush or have to buy a new filter. Waiting to hear back from FN customer service. Nice that a bottle screws on to the unit, so you are not fumbling around wasting filtered water.

I bought the FN because I found excellent reviews on this filter (flow rate) and it took out all the small stuff one needs to be concerned about.
You won't be disappointed. Don't waste any more time reading reviews.... go buy it.
I highly recommend.

I have found the First Need to be the best filter I have ever had. When used correctly it will turn the greenest water crystal clear and taste and odor free. It has been 100% reliable. I dont mind a little sand in my oatmeal or a damp sleeping bag but I must have perfect water and this is the only filter I will ever use . I wish the replacement elements were less costly but you can get 100 gallons from one. I use this trick to get the long life out of my filter.... First I fill a collapsible bucket from the source, then hang it on something that wont be damaged .Let it sit for half an hour as you set up camp. Then I slip a cotton infant sock ( actual sock a baby wears works great ).over the pre filter and start pumping out of the bucket and that takes care of filter clogging silt. Then fill several bottles and your set. It screws right to most water bottles so thats a plus.

The FirstNeed water purifier has been one of my best buys. I've used it since the early 80's and it's never let me down. In larger group camping we all end up using my FirstNeed purifier because the other brands were a pain to use, or stopped working altogether. The only reason it's not rating a "10" is its bulk/weight and replacement filters seem expensive.