ÖKO Original Filtration Bottle

The most efficient water filtration system I've used in 40 years.

Over the years I've relied on two pump-style water filters, the Bota filter bottle, the Sawyer Squeeze, and this OKO. I've used the OKO now for at least 8-9 years, and have replaced the filter element four times. When new, one-handed operation is easy. When you need a hard squeeze with both hands to force water out, it's time to replace the element.

The bottles come in three sizes: 1000, 650, and 500 ml. The 1 Liter bottle is admittedly a bit bulky, and I only use it if I'm using a backpack with generous side pockets. I use the 650 ml bottle 90 % of the time and carry an additional 1L bottle for longer water carries. The real beauty with this system is how fast and efficient it is, particularly when compared with the Sawyer system. I barely have to break my stride to refill this thing. Here in the Pacific Northwest, there are many snow-melt and/or spring fed streams that cross trails. It takes two seconds to unscrew the cap, dunk the bottle into the water, two seconds to screw the cap back on, and I've got another bottle of fresh, cold water.

If you're diligent and can avoid  silty or dirty water, you'll likely achieve the 100 gallons advertised. When I'm on a multi-day trip, I use the Sawyer system because it can be back-flushed, but wow, it's slow and cumbersome by comparison. 

Several reviewers have "complained" that water leaks around the threads or mouth piece. I've not had that problem. Water will drip from the mouth piece when it's open and the bottle is inverted as it will start filtering by gravity.

The bottle itself feels very "cheap". It took me a while to get used to it, but now having used it for years, I can say it's highly durable and barely shows any scuffs or wear. 

I used a bladder & hose once . . . that's all it took. Tepid and plastic tasting water vs pristine, cold snow-melt. No contest. The only reason I didn't give it five stars is the inability to back-flush it.

Background

Many years. I've lived through the original "First Need', pump. Then an MSR pump. Then a "Bota" in-bottle filter. A Sawyer Squeeze ( still use it on long trips).