Why the Katadyn BeFree DESTROYS the Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter

[@DanBecker]

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]

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]

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]

I wasnt sponsored, either.

[@timetoreason181]

@@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]

@@timetoreason181 you reason well.

[@backpacker3421]

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]

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

[@snaponjohn100]

@@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]

@French Frys The vinegar is a great idea

[@nomadicrecovery1586]

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

[@backpacker3421]

@@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.

[@tjholcomb1225]

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!

[@mr.perfect5303]

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]

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]

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

[@camiilodve]

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

[@Melanie-Shea]

@@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]

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.

[@KyleHatesHiking]

I'd like to speak with your manager.

[@nedanother9382]

F ing AWSESOME!! its like a nija attack LMAO

[@nickb6624]

Dan hikes in jeans

[@sz7360]

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

[@aurtisanminer2827]

Shush karen.

[@Louderbacks]

kyle>dan

[@kayakangle]

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]

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

[@j.m.3038]

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

[@SuperBadwilly]

@@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]

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

[@ev6377]

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

[@april906outdoors3]

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]

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]

Great use and keeps it out of the landfill :)

[@herbieburbie]

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

[@swtsoph]

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

[@UnlikelyHiker]

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. 👍🏻👍🏻

[@RugMunchKing]

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]

Or just get one filter, Sawyer.

[@ally8036]

CNOC outdoors has one that fits the befree

[@tommywoolard9753]

Spot on brother

[@turboduckhead6179]

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

[@kevinkreisher8287]

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

[@CordCrenshaw]

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

[@Coolness59]

I did that a few years ago!!

[@TerryYoungOutdoors]

Maybe you need a backflush. 🤣🤣

[@CordCrenshaw]

@@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]

Time for a bore out.....

[@CordCrenshaw]

@@Dharma_Bum do I pay extra for that?

[@AndyOnTheMountain]

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

[@ntfd60]

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]

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]

@@DiabloOutdoorsBruh calm down 😂

[@DiabloOutdoors]

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

[@PeaceMastah]

@@DiabloOutdoors bruh 😂

[@danielgolite]

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

[@DiabloOutdoors]

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]

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

[@davidsawmandave8731]

The sawyer can be used with smart water bottles or other bottles with that thread size and can be bought in every little convenience store , if Katadyn could be used on water bottle that would be sweet

[@howinghong18]

HydraPak Seeker has various size soft water bottle that fits. I had used both. the sawyer looks more robust while it water flow really slow compare to Befree. NEvertheless i never put it under stress coz i am not a through hiker.

[@venturefree.]

I agree I've been using the sawyer squeeze for a while now still haven't found a filter that's better I usually carry 2 smart bottles one for dirty and one that I drink of so anytime I come across a stream I fill up the dirty bottle and keep it moving

[@halifornia2001]

@@howinghong18 And you've found the Hydrapak bottles in grocery stores and/or gas stations? I'm guessing no, which is why I have a Sawyer that works with any readily available plastic water bottle with a 28mm mouth.

[@howinghong18]

@@halifornia2001 well you are right about the readiness of the bottle perhaps that would be a concern for a through hiker. It wasn't mine. I had Sawyer before only not happy at its water flow rate. as i said before i m not a through hiker so a broken bottle in middle of months long trip won't be my concern - i usually bring two bottle and it is enough backup for a weekend trail running route of 40-50km. never need to change the bottle somehow i used Befree for 2-3 years on trails every weekends average 20-30km per week and the water flow rate enable me to quickly refill and continue. Speed is my biggest concern not about "fail-safe" so it was a different consideration that drives the preferences. everyone had to think for his/her own usage. I only point out that there were other bottles that can fit the same befree filter for your consideration. have fun on the trail. Cheers

[@lorddiablo8575]

Switching to another product is not that easy when users already get used to it ! Price & Convenience ( easy to buy, can be used with common size of bottles ) are the major factors of product marketing strategy.

[@RS4393]

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.

[@ravendon]

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.

[@normpeterson7767]

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

[@blanchetsetong224]

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]

Tiny pp man

[@MAXCOBRALAZERFACE]

👍🏻 I still prefer the sawyer squeeze.

[@iankellogg]

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.

[@paddle_hike]

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.

[@BackpackingandBlisters]

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!

[@backpacker3421]

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]

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]

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.

[@KomarNaWulkanie]

you can't go wrong with logic, you CAN go wrong watching greedy youtubers...

[@BadKittus]

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

[@BadKittus]

Mini.

[@BadKittus]

@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]

Amen

[@UncleJoeHikes]

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.

[@3rdGUMObro]

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

[@Unflappabledelladuck]

But, what if you don’t have to? 😃

[@halifornia2001]

@@Unflappabledelladuck 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.

[@Unflappabledelladuck]

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

[@jgrantw10]

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

[@PhilXander]

Just got the same. It's awesome

[@ally8036]

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]

same and you can fill them for long dry sections

[@domo3552]

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]

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

[@kajunblades9772]

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. 🤘

[@Coreycry]

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]

But this guy says he is NOT sponsored.

[@halifornia2001]

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]

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

[@johoover209]

Well said

[@jadenm]

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.

[@Community-Action]

Just bought a sawyer mini filter for $20 at Walmart. Yes the bag included sucks but you can use smart water and other disposable water bottles with it.

[@johnmcbride184]

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

[@donaatvanvooren3851]

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]

No. We’re all just a little scared bitches

[@markpaquin1109]

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]

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]

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

[@donaatvanvooren3851]

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.

[@aaroncarbon518]

To be honest I used the Sawyer for 8 days straight, even with the 16oz bag had absolutely NO problems filling it up.

[@flyingmolamola]

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!

[@theamiazingworldofsebastia4962]

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

[@cragcreeksmith5859]

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]

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

[@dannyvanswieten2484]

@@derekfrey3671 (lol)

[@koltrasten]

The BeFree is great as a backup filter in my cars get home bag, I would not use it as a main filter. The filter quality is just too poor and will break down after a year when my 2 year old Squeeze will keep filtering without problem. The issue with your Squeeze in this video is that you don't take proper care of it, flush it out after every use and you are golden for a few years. While the BeFree will deteriorate heavily after a year of use even if you "clean" it as per their instructions. You might be getting great flow rate after a year but that is because the filter actually wears down so much so that the holes in it gets larger and stops filtering out bacteria etc. (even a cheap TDS meter will show you this) Thats why its rated so much lower than the Squeeze. Both are good for different things and you would do well to have and use both, but side by side and if you only get to chose one of them the Squeeze wins any day of the week. Longevity and versatility beats a decent silicone bag.

[@muleb384]

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.

[@alexwbanks70]

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]

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]

@@nedanother9382 I don't get it either!

[@halifornia2001]

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.

[@wanderingheathen8290]

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

[@mylifemystory9952]

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]

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]

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.

[@Bob_PA]

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]

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]

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]

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

[@dpalms24]

@@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]

@@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.

[@jadenm]

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.

[@ThisIsUnused]

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]

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]

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

[@matthewhite]

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]

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

[@annsolce572]

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.

[@chrisbenitez6548]

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.

[@jackiestevens5786]

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.

[@aussiegruber86]

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

[@fishingwithspiv3081]

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]

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]

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

[@mjfava1]

Good review John. I use the platypus gravity, which is the best I have found so far. (you were great in the Office, btw)

[@markcoraa]

I like both. I had my Sawyer slow down, but the cleaning is fairly easy and works great afterward.

[@MtVQ]

true about the Sawyer bags. took my Sawyer mini out for its first use on the pemi loop, popped a pin hole in the bag on my second time filtering. I was careful with the bag, never dropped or stepped on it, and filtered by rolling the bag, not bunching and squeezing. immediately went out and bought a cnoc bag

[@buckfiden9913]

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

[@turboduckhead6179]

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

[@Dreoilin]

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!

[@lintcj]

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.

[@eaferstl]

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.

[@jessicaphillips7208]

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.

[@Mark-we6xq]

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 ).

[@jeffreyswoodard]

I have the BeFree, I love it. I did get a pinhole a few months ago, I too some aquaseal to it, no more problems

[@titanpreparedness]

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%

[@shellcracker18]

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

[@joeykerr5517]

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

[@Qaeta]

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

[@nickb6624]

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

[@EddieSaldanhaOlson]

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.

[@nedanother9382]

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

[@nedanother9382]

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

[@rowansheppard4062]

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

[@CountryCruiser]

Where did you get that handy orange clip to hook the water bottle to your front strap loop?

[@csamons0935]

You should always get BeFree wet overnight before taking it out. Then when the BeFree starts to slow soak it in distilled water for 24-48 hours. Then if still slow, bleach water for 24-48 hours. Then if still slow CLR for 24-48 hours. I've revived mine twice this way. And remember not to use super silty water. Collect very dirty water in seperate container, then pre-filter into BeFree bag.

[@talavisuo]

How do you store for long time between your trips?

[@csamons0935]

@@talavisuo whenever I'm cleaning I use filtered water from my brita filter, not tap water. For storage add 4 drops bleach to 1L filtered water and run through filter. Allow system to air dry. When ready to use again, let soak in filtered water over night, then run 2 L fileted water through system before leaving for trip.

[@offthecouch1999]

You csnt really choose what water type you are goimg to come across amd even if it's not dirty the rain can change that in a heartbeat. But I do like it for a dayhike in familiar locations

[@SeanHavlik]

I tried switching to a BeFree and got extremely sick, the first time I used it to filter from a stream. I can’t be certain if it was the water or my food, but I don’t think I will ever use a BeFree again.

[@44boowee]

My Sawyer failed. It was 100% plugged on my last trip with my 5 small kids. I only used it 1 or 2 times a year. Full backwash every time and let dry before storing. complete failure after only 10 gallons at most. Thanks for the video.

[@FlowJunkie65]

Great vid and great channel, Dan. Thanks, man. Liked and subscribed.

[@tenzin044]

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.

[@gregthibodeaux6216]

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

[@davidj6755]

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.

[@DigIntoGaming]

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

[@gerkostuff598]

The BeFree barely filters at all. Water flows almost straight through. Try the LifeStraw Flex (edit) which is a 2-stage filter, less water flow but better filtering and has a decent waterbag too.

[@kimhodgson5286]

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

[@alreadylost6587]

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.

[@moose3971]

I am trying to figure out who would even keep track of the gallons they filter, LOL. I just bought the Katadyn 3 liter filter bag, only issue was the weird chemical taste, after I filtered 7 bags that went away. Maybe I should have soaked the filter first. Oh well, we live, we learn. Nice vid.

[@joeykerr5517]

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.

[@livinglifeoutdoorstv6550]

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

[@EDCAdventures1991]

Squeeze ftw. 10+ years of backpacking and the only and the only filter I've stuck with after using multiple other systems.

[@crdlss9]

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

[@jaredcampbell]

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.

[@fnds64]

The Sawyer flow demo at 6:20 is not valid. The plastic water bottle that you used with the Sawyer doesn't collapse creating a vacuum inside it and restricting the flow. You need to use the water pouch that came with the Sawyer or something equivalent. A collapsible pouch for dirty water is a critical part of this kind of system.

[@Kiev-in-3-days]

He knows that.

[@edgit69]

Your channel is growing.. Love it 👍

[@TheSotai]

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.

[@andrewhikesandclimbs5470]

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.

[@justinleland3131]

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]

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.

[@deniseflygirl]

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.

[@FriarTuck81]

did you use the cleaning kit included?

[@emmonschmucker9945]

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.

[@Drykan9]

I agree with a lot of the comments. I like the positives of the Katadyn, but I fear when the bag tears or breaks you're kinda screwed. Sawyer is way more available and easily replicable while allowing you to stop at any gas station to get a water bottle if something should happen to any other container you carry for water. I think both are great and have their uses. CNOC having bags for the Katadyn is really a plus also.

[@longwildernesswalks]

Five years with the Sawyer. Same filter. Just backflushed after every day. Bought the Katadyn filter system (gravity style, 3L bag) and subsequently have tossed the Sawyer in my backpacking 'junk drawer'. I just can't justify waiting 15-20 minutes to filter 2L of water when I can have it done in 3 minutes utilizing the Katadyn. I took the Katadyn to Yellowstone this year for a 12 day trip. The filter was faster than anything Sawyer ever gave me. I don't press on the bag, I just let gravity do the work. I can't see ever going back to the Sawyer unless they fix their bags and their filters.

[@halifornia2001]

You really need to take better care of your Sawyer dude. Backflush with water/white vinegar, as it sounds like you have mineral buildup. Proper cleaning restores it to pretty much the original flow rate.

[@longwildernesswalks]

@@halifornia2001 I've likely put 600L of water through it. All good. I've tried hot water, white vinegar... nothing seems to improve it. I'm not complaining about the filter, it did well. I'm complaining about the effort it took to make said water. With the Katadyn it's effortless. Still, good point on the white vinegar. Hopefully someone will find that useful. Take care!

[@michaelwelch7238]

I'm just a weekend warrior and have not tried the be free but I've had my sawyer for 5 years. I backflush it after every trip and it's still going. The bag it comes with isn't great but I use water bottles anyways. Bottles are 2 bucks to replace and it only takes 5 minutes to backflush the sawyer. I would try the be free if they had a more rigid bag but I don't want that thing clipped to me the whole hike I like to keep my water in a pouch on my bag. Also the sawyer goes in line with my camel back which is another cool feature I use occasionally.

[@chief_pop_pop838]

Are there freezing issues with the Katadyn? That's my only Sawyer gripe. I haven't done it but I could see myself forgetting and ruining it.

[@gwendolynstanfield2653]

Yes, the hollow tube filters cannot be allowed to freeze.

[@chief_pop_pop838]

Would the Katadyn be considered a hollow tube? Forgive me if this is a silly question

[@tonbonthemon]

You know, it seems like people have good success by cleaning the Sawyer filter. As they say, hike your own hike everybody.

[@br5339]

Great video. Thanks Dan! I own both, several of them actually, and, like any piece of gear, they both continue to work fine when they're maintained properly. Back flush them after every trip (last liter of clear water with a drop of Clorine to keep mold from growing), keep the bags clean and they'll both work well for years. Now, that said, I do prefer the BeFree for trips where I need to fill other peoples water bottles...the flow is always better then the Sawyer. If it's just me and I'm going ultralight then Sawyer is a getter option. Here's to giardia free life! ;)

[@picsflix]

Dan, what do you recommend for filtering out viruses? My wife is headed to Guatemala and I don't think my Katadyn will be enough.

[@kwhatten]

Pre treat with iodine.

[@dkthegamer23]

Thanks for the recommendation im definitely gonna get one soon

[@joeldelavega768]

What about the freezing factor? Does it run it like the Sawyer?