Product Spotlight: MSR Guardian Gravity Purifier
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Most gear on this site is a filter. The MSR Guardian Gravity is a purifier, and that distinction is the whole reason to consider it.
Tier: premium.
Filter vs. purifier, briefly
Standard hollow-fiber filters stop bacteria and protozoa. Viruses are far smaller and slip through. In most remote North American water that's an acceptable risk, but it isn't in places with heavy human or livestock contamination, on international trips, or after floods. MSR says the Guardian's hollow fiber removes viruses (99.99%) as well as bacteria (99.9999%), protozoa (99.9%), sediment and microplastics, with an activated-carbon stage to reduce chemicals, tastes and odors.
Specs from MSR
- 10-liter reservoir
- Up to 1 liter in about 2 minutes at an optimal hang height of 6 feet
- Lifetime capacity up to 3,000 L
- Weight 18.7 oz; packs to about 8.2 x 4.7 in
- Includes the two-stage purifier, universal bottle adapter, hoses and a zippered case
- Made in the USA
Worth knowing
At about 1.2 lb it's heavy for a solo backpacker, and it sits at the top of the price range in this category. Gravity speed depends on how high you can hang it. Amazon stock looked thin when we checked, so look at the listing before you plan around it.
Who it's for
Groups travelling in places with uncertain water, international trekkers and anyone who wants one system that handles nearly everything. Solo hikers who want virus protection with less weight can pair a light filter with Aquatabs, or use a UV pen like the SteriPen Ultralight on clear water.
Check the MSR Guardian Gravity on Amazon
Availability changes often, so check the Amazon listing for current stock and options.