Originally Posted by
staehpj1
I don't have a lifesaver bottle, but will just note that it weighs about twice as much as many of the more popular pump type backpacking filters like the MSR Sweetwater. It also costs about twice as much.
That said many of the backpacking filters are only rated to filter "Protozoa and bacteria" and the Lifesaver bottle claims to also have virus retention. Still some of the filters do claim to treat for viruses and some users filter and chemically treat or use a steripen. Most feel treating for viruses is unnecessary in North America.
It also claims to reduce heavy metals and chemicals like pesticides with activated carbon, which is a big deal to me. If I was only worried about bacteria and viruses I would just boil. Additionally, you can keep water inside the filter while you're not using it so it's size can be more justified as it also functions as a reserve water bottle.
That being said, if I was going it solo over areas with few lakes, ponds and rivers, I might opt for a smaller filter and a steripen, and hit up garden hoses and gas station bathrooms where possible. When you're traveling with a small party though, it services the whole group and is part of the shared kit, and definitely earns its place.