Newer filters boast .1 micron filtering, while this unit is .3. It seems that a more modern, .1 micron element should be available. Is it?

This unit actually has .2 micron glassfiber filter. You can get access to the white sheets for it here: http://www.katadyn.com/usen/katadyn-products/products/katadynshopconnect/katadyn-water-filters-backcountry-series-products/katadyn-hiker-microfilter/ - This unit produces good clean water but I've only used it in mountain lakes and streams. Would I use it for water from the river behind my house in Florida? No, absolutely not. But for backpacking it is great, light, compact and easy to use.

Does this come with a filter already? Or do i need to buy one separately?

It comes with a filter. Replacement filters are available, because they naturally wear out over time with use.

My main concern is filtering out harmful micro organisms such as giardia, Does this filter serve that purpose or does it only improve taste?

That is the purpose for which the filter was designed, it may not get viruses, but no filters really do. It will remove bacteria and Protista (giardia) an if you need to worry about viruses where you are camping you can boat treat the water with iodine drops or a UV light. But most places this filter alone will make the water safe to drink.

Does this filter remove viruses? oilecast

This is their claim. I have used this product all over the world. I have no complaints. v/rPATHOGENIC MICROORGANISMSPROTOZOA (AMOEBAE, GIARDIA, LAMBLIA, CRYPTOSPORIDIA)Animal single-cell organisms, 1 - 15 microns* in size, which like bacteria get into drinking water through animal and human fecesThese hard-shelled parasites form cysts, which lead to acute gastrointestinal diseases in humansCommon in unfiltered surface water. Have also been found in drinking water (Milwaukee, London, Sydney)A single cell is all it takes for an infection BACTERIA (E-COLI, SALMONELLA, CHOLERA)Single-cell organism 0.2 - 5 microns* in sizePropagate quickly in warm environments and particular in water,depending on the supply of nutrientsBecome dangerous if they are mixed together with human and animal feces in the drinking waterVIRUSES (HEPATITIS A, NORWALK VIRUS, ROTA VIRUS, POLIO VIRUS)Tiny parasites 0.02 - 0.2 microns*Can only propagate in living cells since they do not possess their own metabolismGet into drinking water through animal and human fecesNear populated areas, where wastewater can get into drinking waterA large number of additional pathogens are known besides the germs listed above. But according to the World Health Organization (WHO), their pathogenic (disease-inducing) action is only slight, or they are primarily absorbed along with food.

Manufacturer	Katadyn North America - pallet ordering
Part number	8018270
Item Weight	310 g
Product Dimensions	16.51 x 7.62 x 7.62 cm; 310 g
Item model number	8018270
Size	One Size
Colour	One Color
Power source type	Ac/Dc
Installation method	Countertop
Item Package Quantity	1
Number of Pieces	5
Flow rate	1 Litres Per Minute
Special Features	Portable
Specific uses	Camping/Backpacking
Batteries included?	No
Batteries Required?	No

8018270 Hiker Microfilter

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