These "finger toothbrushes" are commonly used in prisons (So I am told. Really!). You can't file a "shank" from them. The folks at BackpackingLight recommend their use. I can see the value of a minor weight difference from a more traditional sawed-off toothbrush but as you pointed out -- wash your hands first. Knowing me, I would be more inclined to boil my hands first. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif" alt="" /> I think I'll just stick with my old brush and accept the 5 gram weight penalty. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />