TrailShot Pocket-Sized Filter
MSR TrailShot Pocket-Sized Filter Review
Tested and reviewed for bikepacking use
MSR's TrailShot is a handheld pump filter with an integrated intake hose that drops directly into any water source. The pump action fills bottles quickly, and the hollow-fiber filter removes bacteria and protozoa. No squeezing or gravity hang required.
Who Is the MSR TrailShot Pocket-Sized Filter Best For?
Riders who want to filter water directly from sources without extra reservoirs. If that describes your riding style, the TrailShot Pocket-Sized Filter should be at the top of your shortlist. It sits in the Hydration category alongside 9other products we've reviewed.
How It Compares
At 142g and $50, the TrailShot Pocket-Sized Filter is 83g heavier than the lightest option in this category (the Katadyn BeFree 1.0L Water Filter at 59g). The most budget-friendly option is the Nalgene Wide Mouth 32oz at $14.
The price-to-weight ratio comes in at $35 per 100g — a premium price point, but you're paying for quality, materials, and design that justify the investment for serious bikepackers.
What We Like
- +Pump directly from streams and puddles without containers
- +No need for gravity setup or squeezing
- +Compact enough to fit in a jersey pocket
Watch Out For
- −Slower flow rate than squeeze-style filters
- −Pump mechanism can fatigue hands on large fills
- −Does not remove viruses
The Bottom Line
The MSR TrailShot Pocket-Sized Filter earns a 4/5 rating. It's a solid performer that does most things well. Pump directly from streams and puddles without containers is the standout feature, though slower flow rate than squeeze-style filters is worth considering before you buy.
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