Lessons Learned From My First 72-Hour Survival Test

[GarnetDusk]

Attempted my first proper 72-hour survival test last weekend—biggest surprise was how fast my water filter clogged up. Anyone else had reliability issues with Sawyer Minis in real-world use? Thinking about switching systems before my next run, would appreciate suggestions for backups or easy field maintenance.

 

[PrepperLinda65]

Attempted my first proper 72-hour survival test last weekend—biggest surprise was how fast my water filter clogged up. Anyone else had reliability issues with Sawyer Minis in real-world use? Thinking about switching systems before my next run, would appreciate suggestions for backups or easy field maintenance.

Clogging with the Sawyer Mini is a common headache, especially if the water's got a lot of silt. Did you try backflushing in the field? Sometimes that helps, but I always carry iodine tabs as a simple backup.

 

[AquaFern1028]

Sawyer Mini's a pain when you hit murky streams—I've had mine clog even after backflushing too. Switched to a Katadyn BeFree for shorter trips, it’s quicker to clean on the go but still gets sluggish with lots of sediment. I also pre-filter through a bandana if the water’s really gritty. Anyone tried the MSR TrailShot, or is that just another clogging headache?