wait so... what are you guys even arguing about? lol
IMHO all points made were valid. I personally don't own a camp stove or fuel canisters and while I don't have anything against the idea, it's not at the top of my to-do list. I can make fire and that's all I need to boil water and/or cook food.
I also wonder why nobody's brought up the SODIS method. (TG you were the one who introduced me to that).
my bug out plan is flawed just like everyone elses. no one has ALL their bases covered because you'd need an RV for that. IMO your kit should be tailored to your specific plan. as I've stated many times before, my plan relies fully on my ability to make it to my BOL. that's my fatal flaw. once there I'll have all the clean water and food that I can handle, but it's the journey that will be the test.
all that being said, I don't see what you guys are arguing about.
Ken, to put this argument to rest, you'll need to do some research and find out exactly what is in the water at your BOL and plan accordingly. I know the BOB is only meant to be a 72hr kit, but you can't just prep for 72hrs and then not know what you're in for once you reach your destination. who knows, the water up on that mountain may be fucking pristine but you won't know until you dig up the info.