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MSR Thru-Link Inline Filter Review: Your New Hiking Essential?

Original price was: $49.95.Current price is: $44.96.

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1. Overview of MSR Thru-Link Inline Filter

  • Weight: 80 grams
  • Filtration: Two-stage filtration system (hollow fiber and activated carbon)
  • Removes: 99.9999% of bacteria, 99.9% of protozoa
  • Activated Carbon: Reduces chlorine, chemicals, and improves taste
  • Compatibility: Attaches directly to hydration reservoirs and works with gravity-fed systems
  • Durability: Ultrasonic welded housing for rugged outdoor use
  • Lifespan: Filters up to 1,000 liters of water
  • Use Case: Ideal for hiking, camping, and long-distance outdoor adventures

2. Pros

  • Lightweight and portable design
  • No pumping or squeezing required
  • Seamless integration with most hydration bladders
  • Improves taste by reducing chlorine and chemicals
  • Effective at removing bacteria and protozoa
  • Can be used in a gravity-fed filtration system

3. Cons

  • Slower water flow compared to non-filtered systems
  • May require modifications to fit certain hydration bladders
  • Susceptible to freezing, which can impair function
  • Requires extra suction effort to draw water through the filter
Table of Contents
Primary Item (H2)

Full Review

Edmund
Written by Edmund Yeo

Staying hydrated during outdoor adventures is crucial. You've probably heard horror stories about waterborne illnesses ruining camping trips. But lugging heavy water bottles can be a pain. That's where portable water filters come in handy.

These nifty devices let you drink from streams and lakes safely. They filter water effectively by removing harmful bacteria and parasites, giving you peace of mind.

MSR Thru-Link Inline Water Filter

One popular option is the MSR Thru-Link Inline Filter, engineered specifically for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s designed to work with hydration reservoir systems, making it easy to get clean water on the go and stay hydrated.

The Thru-Link is lightweight at just 80 grams. It uses fast-flow hollow fiber technology to filter out contaminants from your water.

You can attach it right to your hydration bladder for instant filtration as you drink, providing a high-flow drinking experience. No more stopping to pump or waiting for chemicals to work their magic.

Users say it's easy to set up and use. Some noticed slower water flow, but that's normal for filters. A few people had trouble connecting it to certain bladders.

However, most were happy with how it performed at festivals and on hiking trips, providing safe drinking water even in backcountry use.

Unboxing the Thru-Link Inline Filter

When you open the package, you'll find a compact and lightweight filter that fits in the palm of your hand. The Thru-Link's sleek design catches your eye right away, with its rugged ultrasonic welded housing giving it a durable feel.

You'll notice two ends on the filter—one to connect to your water bladder or reservoir and another for your drinking tube.

The package includes the main filter unit and any needed connectors. There's also a user guide with clear setup instructions, ensuring minimal gear hassle.

The Thru-Link is simple yet clever. Its small size might surprise you, but don't let that fool you. This little device packs a punch when it comes to water filtration.

The hollow fiber membrane inside does the heavy lifting to clean your water, reducing bacteria by 99.9999% and protozoa by 99.9%, making it an excellent choice for thru-hikers on the John Muir Trail or long day hikes.

You'll appreciate how easy it is to add this filter to your existing hydration reservoir system, whether you’re filtering unfiltered water from streams or lakes.

No extra tools or complicated setup required—just pop it in line with your current gear, and you're good to go.

Technical Specifications

When you're out on the trail, clean water is a must. The Thru-Link filter brings some impressive tech to your backpack. Let's check out what makes this little device tick.

Revolutionary Filtration Technology

The Thru-Link uses both hollow fiber technology and a two-stage filtration system to clean your water. The fast-flow hollow fiber removes bacteria and protozoa, while activated carbon reduces chemicals, improving taste and smell.

This combination effectively removes pathogens, ensuring you're drinking safe water free from volatile organic compounds, chlorine, and even high chemical concentrations.

Integration with Gravity Filtration Systems

In addition to working inline with your hydration setup, the MSR Thru-Link also functions as part of a gravity filter system. You can use it with a gravity-fed water source, allowing the force of gravity to filter water without needing to pump or squeeze.

This provides an effortless way to purify larger amounts of water, making it a convenient addition for group trips or camp setups. The gravity filter option adds to the Thru-Link's versatility, helping it work in different environments and situations.

Seamless Hydration System Integration

Got a hydration bladder? The Thru-Link fits right in, and it’s designed for pump-free filtration systems. It hooks up between your bladder and drinking tube, transforming your setup into a gravity system for easy drinking.

Quick-connect fittings and a bite valve make it even more convenient, allowing you to hydrate without slowing down, perfect for fast-paced missions or long hikes.

Lightweight and Portable Design

At just 80 grams, you’ll barely notice the Thru-Link in your pack. Its rugged ultrasonic welded housing ensures it can handle tough trails while maintaining reliable durability.

Ideal for trail runners or anyone needing a simple, lightweight, and effective filter, it’s a great filter for backcountry use or even just making coffee on the trail.

Built on a Decade of Experience

MSR has been a trusted name in outdoor gear for more than a decade, consistently providing innovative solutions for safe hydration in the wilderness.

The Thru-Link benefits from this long-standing expertise, ensuring its durability and reliability in harsh conditions. Whether you’re embarking on a day hike or a multi-week trek, the Thru-Link is a result of years of refinement, making it a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

Reduces Heavy Metal Contamination

Beyond biological filtration, the Thru-Link is capable of addressing chemical contaminates. By filtering out heavy metal contamination and reducing chlorine taste, it provides cleaner, more pleasant drinking water, meeting EPA drinking water standards for portable filtration systems.

Chlorine Reduction Benefit

The Thru-Link doesn't just stop at germs. It also cuts down on chlorine taste. This is great if you're filling up from treated water sources. Your drinks will taste fresher and more natural. It's like having a mini taste-improver right in your hydration system.

The filter comes as a cartridge, making it easy to swap out when needed. It's an inline model, which means it works while you're on the move. No pumping or waiting around - just clip it in and go.

MSR has packed a lot into this small package. It's built to make your outdoor adventures safer and more enjoyable. With the Thru-Link, you're all set for clean water wherever the trail takes you.

Testing the MSR Thru-Link Inline Filter

You'll find this filter easy to set up and use. Just connect it between your water reservoir and the drinking tube. When you sip, water flows through the filter. The flow rate is a bit slow, but that's normal for inline filters. You might need to suck harder than usual to get water.

The Thru-Link does a good job of removing bad tastes and smells from water. It makes murky stream water look clear too. This is great for hiking and camping trips where you can't be sure about water quality.

One thing to watch out for - the filter can freeze in cold weather. If this happens, it won't work properly. Keep it close to your body or in a warm place when temperatures drop.

Overall, the Thru-Link is lightweight and compact. It's a simple way to turn your hydration system into a water filter. Just remember it works best for removing bacteria and protozoa, not viruses.

Pros and Cons

MSR Thru-Link Inline Water Filter

This compact water filter offers a handy solution for outdoor enthusiasts. Let's look at what makes it shine and where it falls short.

Pros

  • Easy to use with hydration bladders

  • Effectively improves taste and smell of water

  • Lightweight and portable

  • No need for pumping or squeezing

  • Removes harmful bacteria and protozoa

Cons

  • Slower water flow compared to unfiltered systems

  • May require modifications to fit some hydration bladders

  • Can freeze if not properly cared for in cold weather

  • Might need extra force to draw water through the filter

The Thru-Link fits seamlessly with many hydration systems, making it a breeze to use on the go. You'll notice a big difference in water quality, especially when dealing with funky-tasting sources. It's super light, so you won't even notice it in your pack.

On the flip side, you might find yourself sipping a bit slower than usual. Some users have had to get creative to make it work with their specific bladders. Remember to keep it from freezing, or you could end up with a useless chunk of ice on the trail.

Comparing the Thru-Link with Similar Products in the Market

When you're looking for an inline water filter, you've got options. The Thru-Link stands out for its lightweight at just 80 grams. It's lighter than the Sawyer Squeeze, which weighs about 85 grams. The Platypus GravityWorks is another popular choice, but it's a bit heavier at 295 grams.

The Thru-Link's flow rate is decent, though you might need to suck a bit harder than with some other filters. It's designed to work with hydration reservoirs, which is super handy on long hikes. The Katadyn BeFree is faster, but it doesn't connect inline like the Thru-Link does.

One cool thing about the Thru-Link is that it reduces chlorine taste. Not all filters do this. It's great for making tap water taste better at campsites or festivals.

Customer Reviews

Users love how the Thru-Link filter makes questionable water safe and tasty. Many hikers and festival-goers say it's a game-changer for their hydration needs. You'll find it fits well with most water bladders, though some report needing to suck a bit harder to get water flowing.

A few buyers mention it can freeze if not properly cared for in cold weather. Overall, people praise its compact size, effectiveness, and ease of use. While it may need slight tweaks to connect perfectly with some systems, most agree it's a great tool for outdoor adventures.

You'll appreciate how it removes funky smells and colors from water sources, giving you peace of mind on the trail or at events.

Final Verdict

MSR Thru-Link Inline Microfilter

The MSR Thru-Link is a solid choice for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. It's easy to use and fits well with many hydration systems. You'll enjoy clean, safe water without much fuss. While it may slow down water flow a bit, the peace of mind is worth it.

The filter works great for camping trips and music festivals alike. It's small, light, and does its job well. Some users had trouble with the connections, but most found it worked smoothly.

For its size and price, you get a reliable way to drink worry-free in the backcountry. If you need a simple, effective water filter for your adventures, the Thru-Link is a good pick.

FAQs

Is this inline filter a good fit for you? Here are some common questions and their answers:

How does the MSR Thru-Link Inline Filter compare to the MSR TrailShot?

The Thru-Link and TrailShot serve different purposes. The Thru-Link attaches to your hydration system, filtering water as you drink. The TrailShot is a standalone pump filter. The Thru-Link is more hands-free, while the TrailShot gives you more control over your water source.

Can the MSR Thru-Link Inline Filter remove bacteria and protozoa?
Yes, it can! The Thru-Link uses hollow fiber technology to filter out harmful bacteria and protozoa. This means you can drink from streams and lakes with more confidence. It also helps reduce chlorine taste, making your water more enjoyable.
Is the MSR Thru-Link Inline Filter compatible with hydration bladders?
Absolutely! The Thru-Link is made to work with most hydration bladders. It fits in-line with your drinking tube, making it super easy to use. Just keep in mind that some bladders might need a small adjustment for a perfect fit.
How easy is it to use the MSR Thru-Link Inline Filter in the field?
Using the Thru-Link is pretty simple. You just connect it to your hydration system and drink. No pumping or squeezing needed! But remember, you might need to suck a bit harder than usual to get the water flowing through the filter.
How long does the MSR Thru-Link Inline Filter last before needing replacement?

The Thru-Link can filter up to 1,000 liters of water before it needs to be replaced. That's a lot of hiking!

But how long it lasts depends on how often you use it and how dirty your water sources are.

It's a good idea to keep track of your usage and replace it when needed.

The Thru-Link is a solid choice for hikers and campers who want clean water without the fuss.

It's light, easy to use, and does its job well.

Just make sure it fits your gear and matches your outdoor style before you buy.

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