Exstream Mackenzie Review

"I just finished my second year using the Mackenzie model of the Exstream filter bottles. The Mackenzie has a bit bigger capacity than the Orinco (34 oz v. 26 oz) and that's a good thing because some of the bottle volume is taken up with the filter inside. My backpacking trips range from 3-4 days over spring, summer, and fall and occur in the California's Trinity Alps. I am out almost every other week and the Mackenzie has been my only filter for the past two years. It has worked flawlessly and my Miniworks water filter will probably never see any more use.

I use the Makenzie to drink from, boil the water for my meals, and keep iodine as a back up. The Mackenzie weighs about 8 oz empty, which is a bit more than a empty nalgene, but I no longer carry my hydration bag because water has always been prevalent enough that I can fill the Exstream up along the way. When I subtracted the hydration bag and the water filter from my pack got a lot lighter.

I am not an ultralightweight backpacker but I am always looking for ways to shave ounces that I don't need. What's more, I hate pumping on a water filter. There is no going back for me."

"very happy with this filter. I've taken it many places, and it's so easy to use - just fill it up and sit on it (Carefully!!) and squirt the water into your bottle, or drink it right out of the filter! I haven't used it extensively, so I can't say how long it lasts for. If you don't squeeze it right, air pressure comes out around the mouth, which is a real pain in the butt, but this can easily be dealt with!"