I WAS NOT SPONSORED/PAID BY ANY COMPANY TO MAKE THIS VIDEO. Both products were purchased by ME with my own money and I made this video of my own opinion! If ur looking to get the Katadyn BeFree my coupon code at Backcountry is DAN15 (saves 15%) Get it here 👉🏼 bit.ly/2YpuO1k I am only giving you this code because it works for *almost* any item you purchase from them and cuz I’m a nice guy 👍🏼 😉 NOT cuz I’m sponsored. The Sawyer is still a great filter, just not as good for the weekend warrior backpacking as the Katadyn in my personal opinion.

@jayfromm9018

3 жыл бұрын

I already bought one based on your recommendations in the spring. I like it. I’ll follow your link and get the clip. I really want to carry it on my front strap. Thanks for the info!

@sm00419

3 жыл бұрын

There is claims of the current bag being different from previous models. Maybe do a follow up video checking this out since you need a new one anyway?

@aurtisanminer2827

3 жыл бұрын

I wasnt sponsored, either.

@timetoreason181

3 жыл бұрын

@@aurtisanminer2827 I wasn't sponsored either but knew in the first 2 minutes where he was heading. I came here as this was recommended.

@aurtisanminer2827

3 жыл бұрын

@@timetoreason181 you reason well.

I take care of my Squeeze. I've had mine for eight years, ever since I bought it to replace my klunky old ceramic filter. It was the only filter I used for six of those years. I can't say how many liters for sure, but I'd estimate it at around 2000 liters (roughly 500 gallons). It still has a flow rate like brand new. But I take care of it... I backflush it regularly, I sanitize it before I store it, or after any trail use, and I never let it freeze when it's wet. Backflushing it is crazy easy. You buy a $5 adapter that fits over the output end and attaches to a sports bottle, and you basically just filter the water backwards. If you want to get crazy, add some lemon juice or citric based non-toxic decalcifier. I do that about once a year with a decalcifier made for coffee machines - filter the decalcifier solution and let it sit for 20 minutes, then backflush a liter of clean water and filter a liter of clean water normally, and it'll be like new. To sanitize it, just add a tablespoon of bleach to a liter of water and filter it. You're Sawyer is trickling because you haven't given it any love...

@Peter-sm6so

3 жыл бұрын

Is that ok to sanitize it with bleach? I thought bleach is not good for health

@snaponjohn100

3 жыл бұрын

@@Peter-sm6so You sanitize it with bleach. You do not drink it. It is not good for you. Flush out all the bleach water with clean water first.

@snaponjohn100

3 жыл бұрын

@French Frys The vinegar is a great idea

@nomadicrecovery1586

3 жыл бұрын

Bought one new clogged snd stopped working first day garbage Cleaned it Did it again

@backpacker3421

3 жыл бұрын

@@Peter-sm6so You only need to mix 1/3 cup of bleach into a gallon of water for effective sanitizing. After sanitizing with that mixture, I filter a full gallon of plain clean water to pass all the bleach through. It's perfectly safe.

Thanks for the review! A few years ago, I was working as a wilderness therapy field guide. I started out with the Sawyer Squeeze but got tired of the bags with small openings and leaky seals. I also got tired of the Smart Water bottle that I had to keep squeezing, unscrewing, and squeezing again to use. It was noisy and annoying. One of the leaders had the 1 liter BeFree, and I loved how it worked. So I went out and bought one. First shift out, I got a pinhole in the BeFree bag! Now my water filter was useless and I was in the middle of the woods. (Good thing we had ceramic pump filters with us!) I contacted Katadyn and told them my story, and then sent me a FREE 3 liter bag as a replacement! I loved it! At least for the rest of the season. That's all the filter lasted, and there is no backflush cleaning option. All together, I got maybe a year of use out of the BeFree filter and 4 years out of the Sawyer. Keeping in mind that I was in the field with these filters for two weeks at a time, filtering continuously. Both filters received heavy use. When the time came (this past week) to replace my filter, I chose the Sawyer Mini for $24 out the door because I want more than one year of use. I hope the Mini performs similar to the original Squeeze!

Sawyer for me. Its never let me down and the peace of mind that I can attach it to any bottle is priceless. If it fails, any walmart off trail has one.

@halifornia2001

3 жыл бұрын

Exact reason I won't go with the Befree. If somehow that Katadyn bottle breaks, it's over. And you can't buy a replacement bottle from Katadyn without also buying a filter. What a racket.

@TheWilliamBWilliams

3 жыл бұрын

@@halifornia2001 meh, you've got an extra filter then.

@camiilodve

2 жыл бұрын

@@halifornia2001 you can literally get any other container for that. I have several pouches for that exact filter 😅

@Melanie-Shea

2 жыл бұрын

@@halifornia2001 the bag is made by HydraPak literally any of their 42 mm cap bags for on it. That’s almost their entire lineup save for the couple flask type bags with a smaller diameter cap.

@SerratedAMG

2 жыл бұрын

Yeah I heard that if the sawyer is exposed to frigid air, it clogs up forever. You'll just have to keep it on your body heat in the cold at all times and occasionally backwash it.

Been using the sawyer for over a year and I like it. Screws onto a smart water bottle and seems to work fine for me. I'm sure the Katadyn is great but I wouldn't call the sawyer junk.

@escapingtheoffice7138

3 жыл бұрын

The Sawyer filter isn't junk. The bags definitely are.

@j.m.3038

3 жыл бұрын

@@escapingtheoffice7138 But who cares as you can easily replace it ? Not like the BeFree huh...

@SuperBadwilly

3 жыл бұрын

@@j.m.3038 this the sawyer isn't junk. I've had mine for a decade and it has not stopped doing its job once. I also backflush mine with clean water using a syringe every time to keep it from funking up. Not with minerals mind you but mold as I have used this in the philippines a lot.

@kimberlyfabre1998

2 жыл бұрын

What did you use to hook the bottle to your pack ?

@ev6377

2 жыл бұрын

@@kimberlyfabre1998 just use cnoc bag and adapter and everything is solved

I'd like to speak with your manager.

@nedanother9382

3 жыл бұрын

F ing AWSESOME!! its like a nija attack LMAO

@nickb6624

3 жыл бұрын

Dan hikes in jeans

@sz7360

3 жыл бұрын

oh damn!!!! Karen out harder Kyle!!!!

@aurtisanminer2827

3 жыл бұрын

Shush karen.

@Lou2308_

Жыл бұрын

kyle>dan

I’ve had the BeFree for 3 years. It did spring a pin hole leak last year, but a piece of clear gorilla tape fixed that right up. So I’ve been using it for a year like that. Still works fine. 👍🏻👍🏻

My flow rate has slowed too. I’m about to see a doctor about it.

@Coolness59

3 жыл бұрын

I did that a few years ago!!

@TerryYoungOutdoors

3 жыл бұрын

Maybe you need a backflush. 🤣🤣

@CordCrenshaw

3 жыл бұрын

@@TerryYoungOutdoors that’s a great idea!! I’m not sure if my wife remembers how to do it but I’m gonna ask her. Wish me luck fellas

@Dharma_Bum

3 жыл бұрын

Time for a bore out.....

@CordCrenshaw

3 жыл бұрын

@@Dharma_Bum do I pay extra for that?

My recommended use for the Sawyer bag...fill it with adult beverage of your choice, cap it off, and drop it in your food bag. :)

@backpacker3421

3 жыл бұрын

I wouldn't risk any adult beverage in the stock Sawyer bag. Great filter... horrible bag. Good thing the filter attaches to almost anything.

@rooster6271

3 жыл бұрын

Great use and keeps it out of the landfill :)

@mobydickhead1

2 жыл бұрын

I've seen some scetchy jungle juice containers on Missouri float trips. Those sawyer bags would work great for that.

@IntoTheWildernessBushcraft

2 жыл бұрын

I like your thinking…

I like them both about the same for different reasons. I like the diversity of containers you can use with the Sawyer. I made a gravity feed with old Camelback tubing & a 3-liter platypus big zip bag. Since this is basically the same setup as the Be Free 3-liter, I bought the BF as well. I had problems with both filters not working at all. Both were solved by soaking in white vinegar for :45 min.

I have the Katadyn 1 liter filter and love it. I purchased it after watching your first vid about it. I love it. I also purchased the 3 liter for when I get to camp. Fill it up for cooking. When finished put it back in my pack. I can also share water from my 3 liter with friends at the camp site. It doesn’t take up much room in my pack. I use the aqua clip you suggested for my 1 liter while hiking. Thanks for all the tips Dan. 🤘

Hi Dan, When you clean your Sawyer, don't use your syringe. Get a double female coupler ($3.99) from Sawyer. Then... 1. Fill 1 liter bottle with warm, not tepid or boiling, but in between. 2. Tap the filter lightly on its side as you squeeze the 1 liter bottle forcefully back through the filter attached to the double female connection. You will be surprised by how much comes out. Let the filter sit in the warm water once it's warm/wet to furthrer loosen the clogged gunk. Flush with warm water again then try to see how it affected your filters flow rate. Reading this will take you longer than the entire process. P.S. I only use as a gravity set up for 2 bottles at a time, but at camp I fill a larger platypus with filtered water. I've been doing this since Sawyer came out. I've used everything since the first pump models. Pills before that.

@DiabloOutdoors

Жыл бұрын

Very good point. Becker is just a youtube marketer and doesn't bother to do some serious research. Worst, he knows his videos are full of flaws but doesn't care and doesn't care he's giving the wrong info to new people in the outdoors. Thousands and thousands of REAL thru-hikers and real EXPERIENCED people are laughing at his face and his incredibly arrogant attitude.

@PeaceMastah

Жыл бұрын

@@DiabloOutdoorsBruh calm down 😂

@DiabloOutdoors

Жыл бұрын

@@PeaceMastah ...says a keyboard warrior waffle...

@PeaceMastah

Жыл бұрын

@@DiabloOutdoors bruh 😂

CNOC Sells a 2L and 3L bag that fits the BeFree filter. I have the 2L, and its great!

@PhilXander

3 жыл бұрын

Just got the same. It's awesome

@ally8036

3 жыл бұрын

cnoc is awesome! my friends work there (they have an incredibly small staff) and they love it. if anyone is reading this and doesn’t have a vecto, go get one!

@colinking3314

3 жыл бұрын

same and you can fill them for long dry sections

@domo3552

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Jeff! I'll get the 2L Cnoc for my BeFree. The BeFree is the fastest/most convenient filter I've used. BTW Cnoc give SUPERB after sales service!

@lawdawg1016

3 жыл бұрын

Actually, CNOC sells a Vecto/Be Free combo for $39.99

Love the sawyer squeeze. Used it everywhere. Multi-week treks, urban water supplies in developing countries, filling up from wells, taps, streams, puddles. No problems at all with either flow or bag.

@cmosbattery9614

Жыл бұрын

Tiny pp man

I love my Sawyer. When it gets slow I just backflush it. Easy.

I know its not as ultralight as the befree but I really like the grayl water bottle. Significantly faster at filtering and I find it does a better job making the water taste better.

Katadyn for day hikes or overnights and sawyer for thru hikes or longer trips. Katadyn has less options if bag does fail on you

@rgmALC

3 жыл бұрын

Or just get one filter, Sawyer.

@ally8036

3 жыл бұрын

CNOC outdoors has one that fits the befree

@tommywoolard9753

2 жыл бұрын

Spot on brother

@turboduckhead6179

2 жыл бұрын

Get someone to 3D print an adapter for the be free to fit a regular bottle

@kevinkreisher8287

2 жыл бұрын

My katadyn is 100 times better and anyone that's used one will tell you the same or there lying to you

I have a sawyer mini and after 4 yrs it still flows exactly as it did new. I do actual backflow it after each use though. The accompanying syringe really doesn't take up any room. I learn a great deal from your videos.

Tip from our recent podcast episode: Don't throw the Sawyer bag away! Dan's right, it's terrible for filtering but...it's a great water storage bag if you have to pack in extra water to areas that have unreliable sources (e.g. desert wilderness areas). Thanks for the breakdown Dan!

I’ve used both and prefer the BeFree with the 2L bag. It was fast and awesome when new..after a season, it has slowed way down but still ok. My go to water purification is AquaMira drops....way slower, but worth the wait to me.

Some hikers have chosen to use Sawyers for their AT thru hike and it lasted the entire journey. That says a lot.

@DiabloOutdoors

Жыл бұрын

Very good point. Becker is just a youtube marketer and doesn't bother to do some serious research. Worst, he knows his videos are full of flaws but doesn't care and doesn't care he's giving the wrong info to new people in the outdoors. Thousands and thousands of REAL thru-hikers and real EXPERIENCED people are laughing at his face and his incredibly arrogant attitude.

@MixMeister5000

7 ай бұрын

He hasn't said anything wrong.. jealousy of success is bleeding through your comment lol

Regarding the "filter capacity" of each: Katadyn says 1000 liters for the BeFree because at around the 1000 liter mark, the buildup in the pores becomes too significant and it slows down to a trickle. It doesn't happen all of a sudden, but that's about the point it becomes basically unusable. Long before that, it will be noticeably slower. Sawyer says 100k gallons, but they had to lower the number after lawsuits that claimed false advertising because they couldn't prove their previous claim of one million gallons, which was a random number anyway. In reality, they have never found the extent of the useable lifespan. Because the Sawyer can be backflushed, it is, in all reality, a LIFETIME filter. If you take care of it - backflush it regularly, sanitize it before extended periods of non-use, and don't let it freeze wet... it will likely last longer than you do with no significant reduction in flow rate or filter efficacy. Which filter is cheaper now?

@benhauber1979

3 жыл бұрын

I thought my sawyer had crapped out on me, but in fact, it had gotten hard water mineral buildup inside. I pushed some vinegar through it and it's back to its old self. So anybody complaining about your sawyer clogging up, try vinegar before trashing it, and in the future, flush with distilled water after sanitizing and before allowing to dry for storage.

@SeraphX2

3 жыл бұрын

and all that being said. if you only need to buy one filter, instead of a new one every couple years, then you have had a much less environmental impact. You multiply that by 100, 1000 people rebuying Katadyn's every few years...... I am surprised this is not a factor in this review. even the responsible hikers are wasteful it seems.

I am a long distance thru hiker, my last being the 2018 PCT, I wouldn't think about traveling that distance without a Sawyer brother, you get into a lot of situations where it works it's magic nicely, you just have to take care of it, but why wouldn't you, it is your lifeline...I respect your channel, you're killing it right now and I love watching, but this will continue to be a highly opinionated topic amongst the hiker community that causes a large conversation, but I'm guessing that's what you want as a Tuber

@williamjohnson4417

Жыл бұрын

It’s simple really, do you want a backflushable filter that will last 100k gallons or one you can’t flush that is only good for 1k gallons? Not to mention most experts don’t favor filters that increase resistance when you drink water (aka bottle filters) because study after study shows the increased resistance causes you to drink less water over the same time period. Sawyer is hands down the superior filter.

@DiabloOutdoors

Жыл бұрын

Very good point. Becker is just a youtube marketer and doesn't bother to do some serious research. Worst, he knows his videos are full of flaws but doesn't care and doesn't care he's giving the wrong info to new people in the outdoors. Thousands and thousands of REAL thru-hikers and real EXPERIENCED people are laughing at his face and his incredibly arrogant attitude.

Dan, can we get a review/commentary about water filtration vs. water purification; discussion of some of the water purification alternatives available; and whether and to what extent water purification is even necessary compared to filtration? I've seen purification alternatives out there such as the Grayl water bottle and the RapidPure bottle adapter. And they claim to remove viruses, which the filter systems don't. But are they effective? Necessary? Or just added weight? Thx

I was able to buy a Befree filter (by itself) and then a CNOC bag . and the CNOC bag was a return so I got it for $11. Total = $36. It's heavier but works great for me.

I have had my Sawyer for years. I have a scoop to fill the bag, which I agree is not optimal. I have been on group multi day trips where the Sawyer was the prime water filter. It has not failed me. After every use I take the time to clean it. I am however intrigued by your recommendation. May check it out. Thanks for your videos , fun to watch and helpful.

Fun to see someone saying the same as me... I'm sold to Katadyn Befree. For those who say it's clogging..... Every couple months... I let my filter sit in (demineralized water "buy at the store") for about 30 minutes and it's back like a new filter each time. Never had any issues. Also great with the 42mm CNOC bags.

Totally agree, Ive had sawyers gunk up after a day on trail(having cleaned before leaving). Befree has lasted me 8 days w/ no clean and flow stays strong.

👍🏻 I still prefer the sawyer squeeze.

I bought a sawyer squeeze and I put it on my smart water bottle, it’s gigantic. I also do a lot of trail running, so I use soft flasks a lot. So when I saw the Katadyn BeFree, I thought that was perfect, basically a soft flask, with a water filter. My setup is also kinda a fast packing system, so as light and as bounce free as possible, can’t run with the Sawyer! Got the Katadyn, used it a couple times and I’m not switching back!

Was going to buy the BeFree- video had me sold---then I read all the comments. keeping my Sawyer. lol

I’m a weekend warrior too. Have been using Sawyer mini. Works great, but flow is bad as we all know. Have been thinking I’ll try the Katadyn, but I agree with others here. The Katadyn will probably work great for us weekenders and it will take a long time to get up to that 1000 liter point, but for people doing really like an entire through hike, they might actually bump up against that filtration limit (not that your 1001st liter of water filtered will poison you to death or anything). Definitely agree that no one will ever get 100,000 gallons of use out of their Sawyer, and 1,000 liters is plenty for most of us (which I think is the point in the video), but I can see some scenarios where that’s not enough capacity. Again, to clarify: I’ll be getting one myself and I’m sure it will be fantastic for what I’ll use it for. Edit. After a few months with Katadyn, the flow rate is worse. Tried cleaning with vinegar, etc. Just one non-experts opinion for what it’s worth

@IM_A_BEAR_LOL

2 жыл бұрын

Been taking my Katadyn filter into the Adirondacks for a few years now. The flow rate definitely slows down after a trip filtering from the mineral-rich lakes and streams I'm drinking out of. The secret I've found is soaking it in some distilled water after each trip. Flowrate seems to come back to nearly 100%.

@fishingwithspiv3081

2 жыл бұрын

@@IM_A_BEAR_LOL will have to give that a shot. I was seriously bummed when my flow rate just crashed!

I have bought 3 be free filters and loved it for thru hiking in MN but all 3 of them clogged on me after just a few days. How do you unclog it? I have swished clean water in the 3L bag with filter on. I heard to soak it in demineralized water but I cant find that anywhere in the MN stores.

I’ve been running sawyer and smart bottle for 4 years.

@BadKittus

3 жыл бұрын

Mini.

@BadKittus

3 жыл бұрын

@French Frys I bought and used a Katadyn for a bit, 2 days lol, I couldn't get over the taste. Sold it to a buddy.

@lordllama2225

3 жыл бұрын

Amen

@UncleJoeHikes

3 жыл бұрын

The new Sawyer Micro evens up a lot of what he's saying esp. cost. And he admittedly hasn't cleaned his Sawyer so you can hardly complain about flow rates if you're not keeping it clean.

Sawyer for three years , no problems at all. I do back flush it after every trip and soak it in tap water before the if I haven't used it in awhile.

@derekfrey3671

3 жыл бұрын

Soak it in tap water? Tap water is really bad for filters.

@dannyvanswieten2484

2 жыл бұрын

@@derekfrey3671 (lol)

I've used both, and they have their plusses and minuses. Used the Be Free for a weekend trip, and the bag sprung two leaks near the collar after only 2 uses. Flow rate was great until I had to boil my water. I'm now a convert to the Sawyer simply because of not needing to use a bag if one punctures.

@DiabloOutdoors

Жыл бұрын

Very good point. Becker is just a youtube marketer and doesn't bother to do some serious research. Worst, he knows his videos are full of flaws but doesn't care and doesn't care he's giving the wrong info to new people in the outdoors. Thousands and thousands of REAL thru-hikers and real EXPERIENCED people are laughing at his face and his incredibly arrogant attitude.

I'm going with the Sawyer and a Cnoc bag just because of the ability to attach to the Smart water bottles. That being said, I have heard MANY good things about the Katadyn. Just for the record, I think you're awesome despite what Kyle says about you 🤣🤣

@jamesc6526

3 жыл бұрын

I'm in the same boat. If the katadyn had standard threads, I would be all over it. I've heard great things about it, but I can't risk a bag breaking, and me loosing the ability to filter my water.

@nk6197

3 жыл бұрын

Same here. If my sawyer dies I’ll probably buy a katadyn

@matthewhite

3 жыл бұрын

Agreed... I have a CNOC dirty bag and a coupler to attach Smart water bottles. The three pieces are attached as a single unit while I'm squeezing or can hang the bag and use it as a gravity feed. With the Katadyn it seems as though I'd have to pay much more attention to holding the filter above the opening of whatever bottle I'm using to carry the water.

@kdavis4910

3 жыл бұрын

I will stick with the sawyer because with proper care it lasts a long time with a great flow rate.

where do you get the clip for the Katadyn?

On my PCT thru hike I started with the BeFree which was a quick and random move from my tried and true Sawyer Squeeze... I liked it for a week or two then the flow rate gradually slowed down, eventually I got a hole in the bag so it was time to go back to my Sawyer. I pair my Sawyer Squeeze with the Cnoc 2 liter bag which is used for my dirty water. I then squeeze it into 2 Smart Water bottles. This worked for me for about 2,000 miles. I also back flow the filter with a squeeze top that comes standard on the smaller Smart Water bottles. I also noticed the majority of other thru hikers used this same system or just put the Squeeze directly on a water bottle. Too bad Sawyer doesn't sell the filter alone without their garbage water containers. Nice review Dan, but I gotta stick to my Sawyer Squeeze :) -Andy

At first I swore by the BeFree then my opinion changed. I've had two now because I thought maybe the first one was a defect. I live in Ohio where the water is not as clear as it is out west. I've also taken to Doly Sods VW and while there it was useless. Yes I presoaked it! Not sure if the iron in the water is what clogs but I had to use my buddy's Squeeze the whole time. Yes I know how to clean it! I wish it would have worked for me because I really loved it when it was flowing. I even have talked friends into getting them. I give up! I've switched to the squeeze and am sticking with it.

@nedanother9382

3 жыл бұрын

thats so weird since they are pretty much the exact same filter. As you said, Ive never had to deal with other than the crystal clear west mountain water....But I'll put your brown Ohio tap water up against our hard bleached pool tap water any day. Tastes like you're sucking on a metal hose...cheers

@alexwbanks70

3 жыл бұрын

@@nedanother9382 I don't get it either!

@halifornia2001

3 жыл бұрын

Seen plenty of reviews that say the same thing. Befree works great if the water is super clear, but if there's any sediment at all it clogs up fast. Sawyer Squeeze handles it better and can be backflushed which clears it out nicely.

I have used sawyer since I backpack 3 years ago I thought on switching to befree, but I never have had a problem with my sawyer in combination with smart water bottle and cnoc bag. I hardly move to befree

Absolutely agree. Specs-wise, the Sawyer looks good, but in practice the BeFree is so much better. And you didn’t even mention that the overall system (filter and dirty bag) is lighter and has a much smaller footprint in your bag!

I'm on the fence. Originally I bought a sawyer mini.... Been using it all summer. The flow seems fine but I'm intrigued by Be Free because you can clean it easier. I will probably get one just to experiment. I noticed in one clip you had it attached to your chest strap. What did you use to attach it?

Great video. I noticed you had a belt clip for your katadyn. Where can I get one? Thanks

Platypus has a pretty good filter with an awesome flow rate and a good bag. I’ve liked it so far. I also still have my sawyer mini. I just take care of it (not too much) but frequent back flushing and sanitize when I return. But I do think the Be Free is easier than the Sawyer. But the sawyer and the mini can go inline as well. Some really like that.

Dude it's not that hard to backwash the Sawyer.

@dantran3628

3 жыл бұрын

But, what if you don’t have to? 😃

@halifornia2001

3 жыл бұрын

@@dantran3628 Then have fun when your Katadyn bottle breaks and you can't replace at a grocery store/gas station, AND you have to buy a whole new filter because they don't sell the bottle separately.

@dantran3628

3 жыл бұрын

@@halifornia2001 I don't believe all consumers are thru hikers?

secondly...I have thought before that the only filter I have owned got clogged. It's important to note that these type of filters need to be soaked through before use. I image most of the people say "clogged" when it just needs some time. Its panic time when it happens but just give it a half hour and it will be fine. I pre-soak mine now before I leave on the trip

Hi Dan. Good review on the Katadyn Befree. I have one on Amazon's save list as I prepare for winter camping...mostly overland. That backpack clip to mount on a shoulder strap sold it for me. I've used something similar for three years called Vapur (in OD green one of three colors offered) and it's worked for me, more so than the Sawyer mini or Squeeze. I use it mostly when I stealth camp in that the color blends in with the environment. The Vapur can be rolled and secured with its own cap ring attached after use. I have two bags, one to collect water and one with a filter. The quality of the plastic has proven to be superb after three years of vigorous use. The con on the Vapur filter is that it is almost as long as the bag making it impossible to roll the bag for storage when it is empty; however, when flat it slides easily down into my pack. Another filter system I love is the Grayl that works like a coffee press. I found a short camera tripod pouch with shoulder strap to carry the Grayl like a canteen for those exploration hikes without being encumbered by a backpack. The biggest con for me re the Vapur and the Befree are their inability to stand upright when setting them down on a flat surface; nitpicky but nevertheless it's irritating.

@AaronVets

Жыл бұрын

Get yourself a Hydrapak Flux bottle for the BeFree, they can stand upright and are more durable!

where can I get the chest clip attachment accessory for the BeFree to attach to my chest strap? Thank you

I’ve used both for a good while. The befree has been my go to, without a doubt easier to use and haven’t had any trouble with it. Sawyer is good, obviously a solid unit but had some flow issues as time has gone by. My sawyer froze on accident and made the switch and have never been happier

I bought the BeFree on sale and have yet to try it out. I have used sawyer for five years with no issues but i do backflush it after every backpacking trip and submerge it in vinegar with more backflushing. Flow rate always seems to be great. The sawyer bags do truly suck. I instead use the Cnoc outdoors Vecto 2L to scoop up water and filter. Bag works very well and it can even get somewhat shallow water too as long as there is a little flow to the water such as a shallow creek. Love the sawyer but always willing to try something new. 9/19 Update- im done with sawyer. Its okay but plan on replacing every few years or sooner. As The video explained, it losses functionality with time/use. Mine worked at home fine after cleaning it one trip and then on my day hike it completely failed. Not even a trickle.

The bag should go to the junk bag,because it’s where it belongs to !lmao😂

@DanBecker

3 жыл бұрын

🤣

@Medickep

3 жыл бұрын

The sawyer bags are crap!

My bag split, was stuck in a jam after that....the sawyer is my new filter

I've used the BeFree for almost 2 yrs now and I love it. My flow rate is still about 80%. You have to fill the bag with water put the filter on and shake shake shake a bunch. Drain the bag and do it again. I do it about 3 or 4 times before I go on a hiking trip and have no issues.

Never had any issues with the sawyer bags🤷‍♂️. Make sure you use the back flush syringe on the sawyer

@joeykerr5517

3 жыл бұрын

Can you back-flush the squeeze? I thought that was only the mini.

@Qaeta

3 жыл бұрын

@@joeykerr5517 You can absolutely back-flush the squeeze, mine came with the backflush syringe.

@nickb6624

3 жыл бұрын

Instead of bringing the syringe, bring a smart water bottle with a sports cap, it functions in the same way

Hey Dan. Appreciate your time and "fun energy" that you put into your videos. Any thoughts on the Grayl Geopress 24 oz water "purifier". I just watched your review on the Katadyn BeFree & Sawyer Squeeze. I've used the Sawyer Squeeze and Mini but not the BeFree. Cons on the Grayl would be weight, (15 ounces), capacity (24 ozs) and price ($90.00). Pros: ease of use, purifies and use of activated carbon for taste, smell & clarity. Again, appreciate your time, energy and backpacking vid's. Aloha from Hawaii ~

Sawyer Products SP128 Mini Water Filtration System, Single, Blue is $18 on Amazon. Even if you throw away the bag, the filter alone is cheaper. This Filter is rated up to 100,000 gallons.

Hey Dan! What hoodie are you wearing in this video?

It may have been mentioned already, so I apologize if this is a repeat, but HydraPak sells the replace my bags and a number of other soft flasks and bottles made for the Katadyn 42 mm filter. All of which are cheaper than $20.

I use the sawyer 1 gallon gravity filter system been using it since its out havnt had any flow issues since i backflush mine after every trip and thats the best system for me and for group trips couse its hang and forget or i screw my watet bottle onto the adapter and let it do its thing while i do other things

I have both. I like the Befree but the flow rate really dropped off after several uses. Broke it down, cleaned it and still no improvement. Had a similar issue with Sawyer but was able to resolve after a food cleaning. After several scotchs, I decided to stick with Sawer. Tucking in my hoodie strings and kicking back to enjoy some more of your videos.

honest question, no critique: I see people in the US filter everything, even the purest glacier water. Here in Europe, I go hiking in the Alps for years now and everyone just fills up at mountain streams without using a filter. I've never had any issues. Is the water of different quality in the US?

@snaponjohn100

3 жыл бұрын

No. We’re all just a little scared bitches

@markpaquin1109

3 жыл бұрын

If water is fast flowing, clear and cold, I don't filter. The younger generation has bought into "Big Filter" scare tactics. They voted for Biden too.

@maryleonard6381

3 жыл бұрын

High elevations are fine to not filter, consider the source. National Forest range cattle where they pollute streams and creeks with ecoli. What I was told.

@owlbert3963

3 жыл бұрын

probably don't run cattle everywhere in europe....

@donaatvanvooren3851

3 жыл бұрын

As an aside: I would personally be more concerned with constantly reusing plastic bottles that are in the sun in a side pocket of your pack all day long. It has been proven that this releases chemicals into your water.

Hello Dan I have been using it all summer and it really works well. No issues at all. Keep making videos as I Always enjoy the humor and appreciate the information.

Nah sawyer all the way. The katadyne is good but I like the versatility of the sawyer.

The only issue I've had with the bee free is the bag has ripped majorly at 900 miles of use been through 2 of them same malfunction twice in a row which is a catastrophic failure that being said I'll carry an extra bag before I use the Sawyer it's absolutely terrible in comparison.

CNOC makes a vecto bag that works with the BeFree. I love using them together.

Regarding the Sawyer squeeze, I carry a small disposable water bottle with the bottom cut off and use that to scoop water which I pour into the bag. Alternatively you can replace the bag with a small smart water bottle.

How does the befree compare with the salomon xa filter?

Could you explain what you mean by 'Cleaning it out per their instructions, which is never easy' , 1-2 minutes of back flushing ? Or letting it soak if back flushing does not help ? Is there something that Sawyer recommended to you that is more complex and never easy ? Just curious, much appreciated. I'm looking at a new water filter and , well very few objective reviews I've seen include a product that DESTROYS a Sawyer Squeeze ( though most of them include the BeFree ).

So the real question then is the Katadyn befree all you need or should you also have a grayl?

How do you keep the Befree from freezing?

I couldn't agree more that this is the winner. same as sawyer but more open for less clogging easy. NEVER had a leak and I have abused it. I strongly recommend the 3 liter size. One trip to the water gets you done for the night....AWAY from the water and mosquitos. It turns my 1 liter capacity into 4. I regularly hike the sierras and this has been perfect. It lays perfectly across rocks and logs. the bag gets real dirty looking but its just great

Best water filter for freezing temps?

I read multiple reviews that have said the bag makes the water taste like plastic, is this true in your experience? I was almost sold on this filter until I saw that.

Thank you for helping me choose the Sawyer over the Katadyn. Only 260 gallons?! That's pathetic.

@turboduckhead6179

2 жыл бұрын

That’s just short of 3 litres per day for 365 days of the year. For 25 bucks!

The real difference when filters are clogged: Sawyer user: I backflush with ther syringe/adapter, use vinegar, submerge in water the day before a trip (recycling mentality) BeFree user: I throw it and buy a new one because I cannot revive it. (consumer mentality)

@timetoreason181

3 жыл бұрын

But this guy says he is NOT sponsored.

@halifornia2001

3 жыл бұрын

And if your Katadyn bottle breaks, you now get to buy a whole new filter with your replacement bottle. Katadyn doesn't sell the bottle alone. What a crock.

@tonikurvinen9731

3 жыл бұрын

@@halifornia2001, actually you can buy also HydraPak 2l, 3l or 4l Seeker bottle as well and use it with the BeFree.

@johoover209

3 жыл бұрын

Well said

@jadenm

3 жыл бұрын

I do this as well and my sawyer has been working great for five years. I did buy a BeFree because im always wanting to try different water filters and it was on sale for $30.

did you use the cleaning kit included?

I see a lot of backpackers and thruhikers using the BeFree. It's very nice. I have a HydroBlue Versa Flow. It's like the Mini, but better flow. I just like the versatility of it.

first filter was the be free. no complaints other than I could only find the 3L before my first spring trip. Has worked great for probably 30L of water so far. might try a sawyer next season, just to compare.

If you need/want a larger dirty water bag, buy the BeFree filter on its own, then pick up a Hydrapak Seeker 2 or 3 liter bag instead. About the same price ($20 or $22), and MUCH more capacity. The Seeker bags also have the same 42mm cap size so the filter fits perfectly. If you decide to get real crazy, you can get the plug-n-play cap for another Seeker bag for your clean water, and then rig up a screw-on connector for the dirty/BeFree end, and a quick connect for the clean bag. Now you have a gravity filter system with 2-4 liter capacity that packs down small enough to fit in your pockets. Best of all, you can still keep the drinking tip for the BeFree (since it just screws off) and drink directly from the filter bag if need be.

Dan! Thank you for touching base on this! Just had an overnight with the ol squeeze and yep gear failure. Riding that micro train now. After this vid def gonna use that REI gift card just in time for holidays and switch teams! Thanks!

I've used both the Sawyer Squeeze and KATADYN BEFREE extensively on Pennsylvania trails. The major difference is that the Sawyer Squeeze can be back flushed. The KATADYN BEFREE cannot. My KATADYN BEFREE started with an absurd flow rate, much faster than Sawyer but began to slow to a trickle after only about 300 miles / 10 days on the trail. There is no way to reverse this. After almost 1000 miles my Sawyer Squeeze is back to its original flow rate with a vinegar soak and bleach backflush. As much as I wanted the KATADYN BEFREE to work, I'm going back to the Sawyer.

@backpacker3421

3 жыл бұрын

I think Katadyn had only occasional short trip hikers in mind. I agree, it's useless for long trips or frequent ones. Any long trip ends in a trickle, and frequent short trips will still have you replacing it at least once a season. That's a lot of waste and expense just to get a few liters of super fast flow...

@dpalms24

2 жыл бұрын

Where do you get the you cannot back-flush the Befree? I can find no such statement from the manufacturer. Only that it is not necessary. I hear that statement constantly, but have never found the place where Katadyn says not to do it. Please provide link to source if I missed it.

@Bob_PA

2 жыл бұрын

@@dpalms24 How do you backflush a Befree? The only thing I need to backflush my Sawyer Squeeze is a sports cap.

@dpalms24

2 жыл бұрын

@@Bob_PA Simply remove the mouth piece off the clean end and flush some water through with anything really. Another bottle, a syringe, anything you can backflush the sawyer with. FYI, the exposed threads are smart bottle compatible so with a coupling it makes for an easy gravity filter setup.

@Bob_PA

2 жыл бұрын

@@dpalms24 I've tried it. You don't get nearly the same pressure as a when backflushing the Sawyer. It basically doesn't do anything to clean the filter.

I just skipped the whole debate and bought a Katadyn Pocket filter. It’s heavy, but I’m not ultra-light packing.

Frist time out Sawyer clogged and bag busted. Can still use it after cleaning but seriously looking at the other. Thank for the info!

The wide mouth CNOC Be Free bag to use with the Katadyn is sweet too. I love the no backflush on the Be Free too. I put a couple small drops of bleach in the bag and agitate it then flush it through the filter

Maybe I missed it, but how do you clip the BeFree to your bag/strap? The one you listed in your description is for a regular bottle right? Does that fit on this too?

@DanBecker

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah it fits. Just needs a bit of extra love to get it to attach lol

I saw your update to this, but I just wanna chime in about this comparison excluding the charity side of things: I don't think it was fair head to head. I have owned a Sawyer for 8 years, it still works great. The thing is, I bring the backflush plunger and backflush after every use, every time. I agree about the default bag, it's trash, the CNOC is required. With that, I tie it off on a tree and gravity filter into my bottles with a 3d printed adapter to prevent spills, it performs great. I am routinely done with water chores before hiking partners using Katadyn.

Where can I find that water bottle clip you are using? The link is broken

Hey i have the Befree Filter for almost 2 year but i like the clip you have on the beginning of your video to clip to your front shoulder tarp

Hi! I just actually searching all day today for another water filter and founded this channel. I'm happy user of msr trailshot filter, but need something quick. Generally I need full up quick and often multi times my nalgene bottle. I'm happy with msr but if I need after all day walk for cooking I want quick and easy way. That's why think about sawyer sqeeze or katadyn. Generally prices in Uk are similar and little thing move my attention to sawyer direction. Life time for sawyer is about 378,541 L/100,000 gal. For Katadyn about 1000L. Another hand-katadyn have much better bottle. Then for sawyer I though buy Cnoc vecto 2L bag but this is another 25pounds(GB). But katadyn it's much quicker, so because I need actually now ones or twice a year for 3-4 days trip I think I would use katadyn. Btw is easy to clean? I mean after my trip to storage for many months. generally I flush many times my msr, taking apart, wash well again and dry up in the sun for 1-2 days to be sure is completely dry inside and keep in my draw. Any suggestions guys? Greetings from Uk, Tom.

Been using sawyer for about 5 years, including the bag that came with it. I make sure I ‘clean’ it out before storing it for long periods. I do find the flow rate slow when I take it out of storage, but it is back to normal after about 1 L. I don’t like the idea of the other filter because if the bag fails, I have no backup, with Sawyer i usually have several bags or could just buy a smart water bottle at a gas station.

You make some good points! But I also clean my sawyer after every use and it flows great!

While ive never broken/got a pin hole in my be free bag i dont like the idea of being in the woods and my bag goes down and now i have no way to carry/filter said water. With the sawyer/hydroblu i just use a bottle(which has never broke). Pretty cool to save your viewers 15%

The filter clogs pretty easily and then is useless. I carry mine for very pristine mountain streams, but in the desert, I wouldn’t trust it.

How do they compare in a taste test?

My guess is Dan isn't back flushing after long term dry storage. That's how my Sawyer squeeze behaves when it's been dry for a while. A quick back flush before each trip ensures a much better flow rate in my experience. The thing I can't get past on the befree is why the bag is $20 for the 1 liter and $30 for 3 liter. And it doesn't even seem like you can purchase a replacement. If the 1 liter sold for the same price as the .6 liter version and they sold replacement bags I could see giving it a try but I'll be sticking with my Sawyer Squeeze and remembering to back flush it after long term storage. TPU bags shouldn't be expensive, my $10 Coleman hydration pack uses one. They're nothing special, let's hope the free market steps in and fixes the pricing issue. Just doesn't make any sense to me as it stands.

Where did you get that yellow clip on part

Didn't know that one filter could DESTROY another filter. Do they do something other than filter water?

I often use the Grayl Geopress. Its not light weight, but you can drink damn near anything with that LOL They are also very expensive!

For the amount of water they can filter, they usually add the disclaimer of depends on water quality...so you can be sure that they are basing the stats on very pure water.