This is one long-lasting cartridge but it does have to be replaced every once in awhile. The best way I determine replacement is the difference in color. Labored pumping doesn't occur until later. Works great until the very end. Dry out as good as possible & store in a plastic bag in the freezer when not being used for long periods of time.

This filter lasts a long time, and is easy to clean. The replacement comes with a small tube of O-ring lubricant to help ensure that it does not leak. There is a fine mesh "filter protector" which filters out larger debris before it gets to the actual filter. I use this in the Katadyn Base Camp (gravity bag) system, and it works wonderfully. This is indeed the correct replacement filter for that system.

Great cartridge, Katadyn has definitely improved their design. The cleanable screen and integrated charcoal filter are great additions. They take an already top-notch filter and up the ante. For those of us who just can't trade our heavy filters with bad-tasting tablets, this is our filter.

I don't have Giardia yet.

I work for a YMCA Camp and this is the product used to take 10+ kids into the backcountry and depend on for water/survival. It is a great product and serves up the best mountain fresh water I have ever tasted.
I have just purchased one for myself and friend!
Can't wait for another trip to taste the best water ever!

I have been using the hiker system for four years. Works great for upper desert hiking conditions. Filter is easy to replace and the water tastes great.

I bought two Katadyn Hiker Pro's with two replacement cartridges, for a total of 800 (advertised) gallons of emergency water in case we find ourselves in one of those disasters resulting in a local water shortage. Hopefully I will never get to try them out, but I feel much better knowing I've got a plan, more or less...

I've used my filter now for about three years and it is one of the best systems that I have ever used. It is lightweight and efficient. I do a lot of tough hiking and it is a very good system. A buddy of mine bought one before deploying to Afghanistan and he swore by the filter. That's what got me looking.