I was thinking that they had the large filter size (3 microns and up) to keep the flow rate relatively high. That in combination with the aquamira tablets would be fine under normal circumstances. So listining to OM's experience was a little disheartening because I want real reliability when I go out to the desert. I carry as little fuel as possible because of all the water weight you sometimes need to carry. I don't want to be boiling water unless its an emergency. Dry camps can be common.