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Katadyn Vario Microfilter – Dual Technology Water Filter
Katadyn Vario Microfilter – Dual Technology Water Filter
Katadyn Vario Microfilter – Dual Technology Water Filter
Katadyn Vario Microfilter – Dual Technology Water Filter
Katadyn Vario Microfilter – Dual Technology Water Filter
Katadyn Vario Microfilter – Dual Technology Water Filter
Katadyn Vario Microfilter – Dual Technology Water Filter
Katadyn Vario Microfilter – Dual Technology Water Filter
Katadyn Vario Microfilter – Dual Technology Water Filter
Katadyn Vario Microfilter – Dual Technology Water Filter
Katadyn Vario Microfilter – Dual Technology Water Filter
Katadyn Vario Microfilter – Dual Technology Water Filter
Katadyn Vario Microfilter – Dual Technology Water Filter
Katadyn Vario Microfilter – Dual Technology Water Filter
Katadyn Vario Microfilter – Dual Technology Water Filter
Katadyn Vario Microfilter – Dual Technology Water Filter

Katadyn Vario Microfilter – Dual Technology Water Filter

by Mayday
$125.00 - $125.00
$125.00
$125.00 - $125.00
$125.00
SKU MD12087
Availability:
in stock, ready to be shipped
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Versatile Filtration for Backcountry and Basecamp The Katadyn Vario Microfilter (SKU: WA22) combines the best of two worlds: the longevity of ceramic filtration and the high-flow efficiency of pleated glass fiber. Designed for outdoor enthusiasts and emergency preppers alike, this adaptable unit allows users to switch between "Long Life" mode (for dirty, turbid water) and "Faster Flow" mode (for clearer sources), delivering up to 2 quarts (2 liters) per minute of clean, potable water.

Key Features

  • Dual Filtration Technology: Utilizes a 0.2-micron glass fiber filter for removing biological pathogens (bacteria, protozoa, cysts) and a cleanable ceramic pre-filter disc that can be engaged to extend the filter's life in turbid water.
  • Replaceable Carbon Core: Includes an internal activated carbon granulate chamber that reduces chemicals, pesticides, and bad tastes/odors, ensuring water tastes fresh even from stagnant sources.
  • Adjustable Flow Modes:
    • Longer Life Mode: Engages the ceramic disc to pre-filter heavy silt, protecting the glass fiber pleats.
    • Faster Flow Mode: Bypasses the ceramic for maximum output (up to 2L/min) when water is relatively clear.
  • Direct-to-Bottle Capability: The base features a threaded adapter that screws directly onto standard Nalgene® (wide-mouth) bottles and includes an output hose for filling hydration bladders.

Why It Matters In a survival situation or long trek, water quality varies. Some days you find a clear stream; other days, a muddy puddle. The Vario is the only filter in its class that lets you adjust the mechanics to match the water source. It offers the speed needed for groups and the durability required for extended field use.

How to Use

  1. Select Mode: Twist the ceramic head to engage "Long Life" (if water is dirty) or leave disengaged for "Fast Flow."
  2. Connect: Screw a Nalgene bottle onto the bottom or attach the outlet hose.
  3. Deploy: Place the intake hose (with pre-filter bobber) into the water source.
  4. Pump: Operate the dual-piston handle. The mechanism pumps on both the up and down stroke for continuous flow.

Technical Overview Weighing 15 oz, the Vario is lighter than full ceramic pumps but more robust than straw filters. The glass fiber cartridge lasts for up to 530 gallons (2,000 liters) depending on water quality, while the replaceable carbon keeps water tasting crisp.

Compliance & Origin

  • Removes: 99.9999% of Bacteria, 99.9% of Protozoa/Cysts (Giardia, Cryptosporidium).
  • EPA Compliant: Meets EPA standards for water purifiers.
  • 1x Katadyn Vario Microfilter Unit
  • 1x Pre-Filter (Ceramic Disc)
  • 1x Glass Fiber Cartridge
  • 1x Intake Hose with Strainer
  • 1x Output Hose with Bottle Clip
  • 1x Carry Bag
  • 1x Cleaning Pad
  • Backpacking Groups: High flow rate fills bottles fast.
  • Emergency Kits: Treats varied water sources efficiently.
  • Basecamps: Reliable daily water production.
  • Travel: Reduces chemical tastes in tap water.
  • Output: ~2 Liters/Minute (Faster Flow)
  • Cartridge Capacity: Up to 2,000 Liters (530 Gallons)
  • Carbon Capacity: Replaceable (lasts ~400 Liters)
  • Weight: 15 oz (425 g)
  • Dimensions: 7.5” x 4”
  • Pore Size: 0.2 Micron (Glass Fiber) / Adjustable Ceramic
📖 Official Resource
Step-by-Step Field Manual
Learn how to properly deploy and stage this equipment in a crisis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the Katadyn Vario use dual ceramic and glass fiber technology instead of a single filter?▸

The Katadyn Vario Microfilter combines ceramic pre-filtration with pleated glass fiber technology to give you versatility in the field. The ceramic disc removes larger particles and sediment, extending the life of the glass fiber core that captures bacteria and protozoa down to 0.2 microns. This dual-stage approach means you can switch between longer-life mode for clearer water sources and faster-flow mode when you need to filter up to 2 quarts per minute from murky streams or lakes.

Can I clean the Katadyn Vario filter in the backcountry without replacement cartridges?▸

Yes, the Vario is designed for field maintenance. The ceramic pre-filter can be scrubbed clean with the included cleaning pad when flow rate decreases, and the pleated glass fiber element can be backflushed without tools. This field-cleanable design means you won't need to carry spare cartridges on extended expeditions, making it ideal for thru-hikers, overlanders, and remote camping where resupply isn't an option.

How does the Katadyn Vario's 2 quarts/min flow rate compare to gravity filters for group camping?▸

At 2 quarts per minute, the Vario's pump-action design gives you faster on-demand filtration than most gravity systems, which typically take 5-10 minutes to filter 2 liters. While gravity filters work well at established campsites, the Vario excels when you need immediate water during active pursuits like trail running, mountaineering, or tactical operations where you can't wait for a reservoir to drain.

Will the activated carbon core in the Katadyn Vario remove chemical tastes from treated municipal water?▸

Yes, the replaceable activated carbon core effectively reduces chlorine, pesticides, and organic compounds that cause unpleasant tastes and odors. This makes the Vario versatile for both wilderness use and international travel where tap water is safe but heavily chlorinated. The carbon core is a separate component you can replace independently when taste improvement diminishes, typically after 200 liters depending on water quality.

Is the Katadyn Vario Microfilter compatible with standard hydration bladder hoses and water bottles?▸

The Vario includes universal adapters that fit most hydration systems, wide-mouth bottles, and standard water containers. The output hose connects directly to Platypus, CamelBak, and MSR reservoirs, while the included bottle adapter threads onto Nalgene and similar bottles. For field expediency, you can also pump directly into cooking pots or collapsible containers, making it adaptable for solo backpackers through expedition teams.

Assembled in USA

Curated by Experts

Veteran Owned & Operated

Retired Army First Sergeant