Purifying water is a modern-day requirement for backcountry sippers. And pumping water with bulky, heavy purifiers is a hassle. Maine-based Hydro-Photon Inc. is promising to end the hassle with its new SteriPEN (MSRP $150). The battery-powered, marker-sized gizmo uses ultraviolet light to kill the waterborne microbes than can wreak havoc in our intestinal tracts. Turn it on and stir it around a bottle of clear water and SteriPEN kills the nasties in a few seconds, making it the fastest way to purify water. No pumping. No chemicals. No filters. The device is perfect for on-the-snow campers and third-world travelers, but you may need a particulate filter if you are using a SteriPEN for stream or lake water.
Get it — Find a SteriPEN seller at www.hydro-photon.com.
