r/tacticalgear Aug 05 '25

Question So what's the hype with these platic bottles and why they're even making dedicated pouches to them? Are they better than my usgi canteens?

548 Upvotes

257 comments sorted by

1.2k

u/[deleted] Aug 05 '25 edited Aug 10 '25

[deleted]

538

u/Cagger101 Aug 05 '25 edited Aug 06 '25

I bought the nalgene canteen years ago when I was in the service and used it in place of my issued canteen. I loved that thing.

I did get called out once by my 1sgt when he noticed it wasn't the issued canteen and asked "where the fuck is the canteen we gave you?". I promptly replied that I use the nalgene canteen instead because I can easily see when I'm going red on water, monitor my hydration level, easily monitor for any contamination for cleaning, and it was a lot more durable.

He liked the answer so much that he decided not to give me any shit about it. What I didn't tell him was me and my supply Sgt blew up my issued canteen behind the barracks 🤣

132

u/Delta-IX Aug 06 '25

What I didn't tell him was me and my supply Sgt blew up my issued canteen behind the barracks

Just paying for it when turning on your gear I guess?

224

u/Cagger101 Aug 06 '25

Since I was with our supply Sgt, he was planning on giving me one of the surplus canteens so I wouldn't come short come time for gear turn in. Unfortunately, he committed suicide shortly after and that never happened. Ended up just buying one on eBay for like $5 before turn in. I think they would have charged me like $15 for it otherwise.

131

u/Delta-IX Aug 06 '25

My condolences.

114

u/hewhoziko53 Aug 06 '25

Jesus that turned dark...,!

32

u/Icy_Vehicle4083 Aug 06 '25

How about a little more detail on the blowing up your canteen story??

121

u/Cagger101 Aug 06 '25 edited Aug 06 '25

Okay I'll bite since I mentioned it. Please don't come after me Army

We were doing some beutification around the barracks. Had our canteens with us. We were sitting on some back steps taking a break and had little bins of some cleaning products with us near by. My supply Sgt, who I was good friends with, came out back to smoke with us and noticed in the bin there was some Works toilet bowl cleaner. He had asked us if any of us had ever made a "Works Bomb". It was certainly first time I had heard of it. He said he would be right back and came back with aluminum foil. He asked for my canteen. I was reluctant hand it over, but said he promised he would grab me a new one out of the cage. Before mixing the ingredients, he grabbed a hand full of rocks for "shrapnel" lmao. He proceeded to load everything in, tightened the cap on top shook it and chucked it into the woods. That thing was vaporized. The cap actually flew on top of the roof of our barracks. Might still be there to this day.

→ More replies (1)

26

u/trymebithc Aug 06 '25

Sorry to hear that brother. Sounds like a solid dude

29

u/Aznp33nrocket Aug 06 '25

Y’all over there stuffing the canteens full of the MRE FRH’s again?! Why can’t you be normal soldiers and make bets on who can last the longest with Icy Hot on their balls…

10

u/Cagger101 Aug 06 '25

Works toilet bowl cleaner and foil actually lol

5

u/pewpew_lotsa_boolits Aug 06 '25

Must have hurt your lips..

/s?

→ More replies (3)

101

u/WildResident2816 Aug 05 '25

Or used it for dip spit, or let a gatorade/energy drink ferment in it, or used it for Lejeune water

21

u/teavodka Aug 06 '25

What does gatorade hooch taste like?

25

u/Squeeze_Toy2004 Aug 06 '25

Death.

10

u/WildResident2816 Aug 06 '25

Like the mold coming out of the vents in the barracks

11

u/pewpew_lotsa_boolits Aug 06 '25

Like kissing a barracks bunny in the mouth.

8

u/WildResident2816 Aug 06 '25

Eeww no. Just no sir. I know where that’s been, no.

4

u/WildResident2816 Aug 06 '25

Science experiment, mild substance was more what i was thinking than barracks hooch lol

36

u/TL89II Aug 05 '25

Came here to say this. 13 years so far and I can count on one hand the times I drank from a USGI canteen after basic. Nalgene W

18

u/No_Yesterday_2788 Connoisseur of Autism Patches Aug 05 '25

Honestly i don’t think I ever drank out of a canteen in basic. We just used camelbaks and when I got to my unit unless I was rucking or forced to use a water hydration pouch I used a cringe camelbak branded stainless steel water bottle. It says hydrate or die and has a skull w a tribal tattoo on it…I needed a water bottle in a hurry

11

u/TL89II Aug 05 '25 edited Aug 06 '25

🤣 the boot jug. We all made similar choices at some point. Trust, I used my camelback as much as possible in basic, but my drills wanted canteens for hydration formation. FLW in the summer, we did plenty of those.

31

u/More_Yak_1249 Aug 06 '25

Just a heads up, they are not truly indestructible.

If you fill one up with water and then throw it 30 ft into the air to let it land on concrete or asphalt to demonstrate to your buddies how indestructible it is, it WILL break. Just FYI

10

u/Longjumping-Ad559 Aug 06 '25

Idk man I dropped mine off a fire observation tower when I got stung by a bee/ wasp whatever and that thing ricocheted a solid 50’ into the woods. Broke where the cap strap connected to the lid but was still watertight. Used it a few more years and then it got ran over in the motor pool lol

7

u/catnamed-dog Aug 06 '25

I dropped mine onto a concrete floor and it cracked the base. Maybe a 3ft fall.Ā 

Nalgene replaced it for free after I sent them a photo

→ More replies (2)
→ More replies (1)

65

u/dont_forget_the_game Aug 05 '25

My piss wash ups other dudes piss, i'm fine with that. But seriously, the best response i've heard is that they are way better for putting snow in

49

u/roostersnuffed Aug 05 '25

Ill double down on the "molten plastic" flavor. As much as I wanted to love my canteens, they get funky quick in heat.

28

u/Brave-Recommendation Aug 05 '25

Yeah the plastic taste helps cover up the petrifying tablet flavor

5

u/No_Yesterday_2788 Connoisseur of Autism Patches Aug 05 '25

But the tablet flavor is the best part!

10

u/ChrisLS8 Aug 05 '25

I swapped to the pathfinder stainless canteen. Shits nice

3

u/roostersnuffed Aug 06 '25

I spent an obsene amount of money on a full titanium canteen/cooking set just to learn its the loudest canteen on the planet.

2

u/ChrisLS8 Aug 06 '25

Hahaha, tactical cowbell.

Mine is very tight with no rattling

→ More replies (1)
→ More replies (1)

8

u/faRawrie Aug 05 '25

I had one for nearly 6 years and dropped it partially full one day. The bottom came off in a perfect circle. I was disappointed, it had been through some shit only to break from a 3-foot fall.

5

u/Vindictive_Turnip Aug 06 '25

So the white nalgene is what you want. It's truly indestructible.

3

u/FN9_ Aug 06 '25

I do think the clear colored ones are less durable. I have a glow in the dark green one and its a different type of plastic like the white ones. It's indestructible.

→ More replies (1)

6

u/Dependent-Ad1927 Aug 05 '25

My dog knocked mine out of my hand in a hotel. It shattered on the floor somehow

9

u/YuenglingsDingaling Aug 05 '25

Damn, mine flew off the roof of my truck and bounced through the parking lot. It was scratched to shit but fine.

9

u/Dependent-Ad1927 Aug 05 '25

Mine was just weak boned lol ive got probably 20 of em at home

5

u/itsdietz Aug 06 '25

The standard Nalgene fits in standard USGI canteen pouches as well

3

u/SideFlaky6112 Aug 06 '25

I had one Nalgene break on me and it was 10+ years old.

Also, I don’t think a lot of people think of those but Nalgene makes mini bottles that are perfect for cracking eggs and keeping eggs in for camping trips

3

u/canonanon Aug 06 '25

The wide mouth also makes for easier cleaning

9

u/Maverick-not-really Aug 05 '25

I dropped mine, half full, on a laminate office floor from table height and it fucking shattered.

I still use them, and i like them, but indestructible my ass…

3

u/Short-Ad1032 Aug 05 '25

How old was it? And had it been subjected to drastic temperature fluctuations, sunlight, etc?

2

u/Maverick-not-really Aug 05 '25

Nope, like 2 months old, and only subjected to tap water

7

u/SilatGuy2 Aug 05 '25

Ive dropped a 40+ liter completely full one on concrete from 5 feet or so and its still going strong 6 years later. I dont think anythings indestructible but its held up well in my experience.

23

u/Inevitable-Sleep-907 Aug 05 '25

I think you're confusing liter with fluid ounce or you're an absolute animal carrying around a 90lb water bottle

19

u/ungitybungity Aug 05 '25

Nah he meant 40L That guy is one of the mods over on r/hydrohomies sub.

11

u/bearatrooper Aug 06 '25

Omg it's him, Mr. Hydration.

9

u/dont_forget_the_game Aug 06 '25

Omg he's john hydration?

3

u/BartLanz Aug 06 '25

Think rucking is a good time? have you tried rucking + 40L of nalgenes? This dude is hard šŸ˜‚

2

u/Maximusgoobe Aug 05 '25

I haven't guffawed that loudly in a minute, so thank you.

→ More replies (3)
→ More replies (2)

2

u/Yogimonsta Aug 06 '25

I dropped mine off a cliff in the Rockies and it was totally fine too. They’re (generally) extremely tough bottles, polycarbonate will do that

2

u/Ohbedub Aug 06 '25

Fun story, when I was a kid we used to chuck Nalgenes in the air as high as we could and they would never break. When I was a young adult I was at work and my boss asked about my Nalgene and I said "Oh and watch this" and I pitched the thing into the ground. I found out that day Nalgene bottles are near indestructible and far from idiot proof. We both got completely soaked from a full Nalgene exploding against concrete.

→ More replies (12)

171

u/Typethreefun Aug 05 '25

Much easier to clean a wide mouth Nalgene.

→ More replies (1)

138

u/IncognitoRhino_ Aug 05 '25

I like a Nalgene bottle because I used them when I was in scouts and when I go hiking. They’re also really durable and good for putting my stickers on. Other than that, I have no other reason for using them vs another water bottle.

24

u/3_quarterling_rogue I want more tactical dog pics Aug 05 '25

I like having an insulated water bottle, keeps ice cold for ages. The downside is that I empty it pretty quick, but that’s negated by having ample places at my workplace for refilling it. Having ice water all the time is so nice.

107

u/YourBuddyMark Aug 05 '25

Not better but they do have a few advantages. First off Nalgene started off making lab containers, so the quality still continues to be high grade. Second, wide mouth makes it easier to clean, and using a translucent color help to make sure you can see if you have anything funky swimming around. The only disadvantage is see is since it’s a cylinder, it does protrude more than the canteen would, if strapped to a bag or belt.

44

u/Squeeze_Toy2004 Aug 05 '25

For the record, Nalgene still makes a shit ton of laboratory containers.

21

u/Longjumping-Ad559 Aug 06 '25

We have the big friggen ones for sodium hydroxide. Got a kick out of it when I noticed it was Nalgene stamped on it

8

u/SmallRedBird Aug 06 '25

sodium hydroxide

Based

2

u/SoCalSurvivalist Aug 07 '25

Very based... lol

So we testing for Cyanide or neutralizing acids here?

3

u/dont_forget_the_game Aug 05 '25

That's good to know, thanks

30

u/VaeVictis666 Aug 05 '25

Nalgene bottles have a few other advantages and disadvantages.

They offer easier access to water in sub freezing temperatures. Store them upside down so they freeze top down.

Easier to clean and see mold and shit.

Can be adapted to use hoses.

Can hold boiling water.

The main disadvantage is they have no way to be NBC adapted to allow drinking through a promask.

20

u/JoseSaldana6512 Aug 05 '25

They does. You buy a Nalgene Oasis and swap da cap

→ More replies (3)

6

u/Radiant-Specific9750 Connoisseur of Autism Patches Aug 05 '25

The Nalgene wide mouth can accept the Tacvalve CCAL then make use of the NBC cap.

The Nalgene wide mouth uses the almost-industry standard 63 mm cap that a ton of manufacturers are using.

→ More replies (1)

3

u/Iron_physik Aug 05 '25

nalgene also makes bottles in the USGI canteen form factor

I can highly recommend them, they are really good!

2

u/PearlButter Aug 05 '25

Nalgene does make military style kidney bean shaped canteens if you want to retain the advantages that shape has over the cylinder. Plus they’re translucent to see the amount and condition of your water.

→ More replies (1)

199

u/[deleted] Aug 05 '25

[deleted]

56

u/butt_huffer42069 Aug 06 '25

They dont have BPA but they're still made with BPx polymers, as there are tons of those that aren't controlled or talked about much, but have the same concerns as BPA.

→ More replies (1)

2

u/World_wide_truth Aug 06 '25

No bpa but microplatics. Also does "no bpa" mean under the legal limit or actualy no bpa?

→ More replies (1)

65

u/ecant004 Aug 05 '25

1) Doesn't taste like algae/urine/carcinogens 2) Easier to clean 3) Ice fits through the opening

39

u/deviantdeaf Aug 05 '25

Specifically widemouth Nalgene bottles..

  1. Easier to scrub clean.

  2. You can visually confirm presence or lack thereof of gunk.

  3. They make cups that fits them perfectly (GSI Glacier), and some kettles and stoves do nest over them.

  4. Graduated markings if you have to make use of them, useful mostly for bag meals/foil pack meals, for boiling water for tea or treatment

I have the Oasis canteens, and being translucent, they are so much easier to know when to clean them or if it's needed. Pain in the ass to stick a bottle brush in them but doable. Exact the same as USGI canteens though but without the solid coloration. The Oasis canteens are compatible with USGI canteen caps if you need CBRN rated caps and adapter caps.

Edit. I also have a widemouth Nalgene, and an older lexan small mouth Nalgene which is too thick for cups to fit over, so it's relegated to being a refill bottle. Got too many USGI canteens, many of them had leaky caps and some still have a stink of having been used as personal spittoons 🤮

33

u/Sol-Firebird Aug 05 '25

Well for one Nalgenes are easier to clean and you can tell if it or its contents are clean easier.

42

u/HawkeyeAP Aug 05 '25
  1. They're fairly sturdy, and it's easy to identify contents.

  2. Yes. You can taste the difference. (As in: Nalgene doesn't have a taste.)

22

u/KhakiPantsJake Aug 05 '25

Pros: Transparent, easy to clean, measurements on side, durable.

Cons: Worse pillow

19

u/AmeriJar Aug 05 '25

It's 2025 and op is just finding out about Nalgene bottles?

7

u/catnamed-dog Aug 06 '25

Wait till he finds out that most outdoors people just use a smart water bottle / 1.5l soda bottle because they work perfectly with filters, weigh less, are durable, and can be had at any store.

7

u/AmeriJar Aug 06 '25

Wait until he finds out that there are companies that design reusable water bottles to mimic the smart water bottle form factor (cnoc) and turn them into hydration systems (hardside hydration)

3

u/catnamed-dog Aug 06 '25

Or that people make tube adapters for the bottles so you can handsfree drink. The possibilities are endless

Edit: nvm that's hardside, I used a cheaper one

→ More replies (2)

11

u/Squeeze_Toy2004 Aug 05 '25

I'm just here for the shit show.

13

u/roofkorea Aug 05 '25

Why are people pissing in their canteens?

6

u/Squeeze_Toy2004 Aug 05 '25

Because they're still drinking their Gatorade? šŸ¤·šŸ¼ā€ā™‚ļø

→ More replies (1)

23

u/Lonely-Law136 Aug 05 '25

Sometime in 2004 I pissed in my usgi canteen and there’s no way to guarantee that one didn’t end up in your kit

13

u/mike_tyler58 Aug 05 '25 edited Aug 06 '25

I know one way, buy a new one. They’re $5… wtf

21

u/Himalayanyomom Aug 06 '25

Let me tell you about these motherfuckers right here. Yes these. I would hump two of these 48oz fuckers fighting god damn wild fires. Day in day out 16hr shifts two weeks straight. Keep only water in em. Not a single stench, not a hint of plastic, direct exposure to flames and water still was good. God damn ash gave me a lick of flavor. Good Ole burnt pine tar. Each man on the squad was required to have one. Decorated the fuck out of it with some edgy stickers like any lunatic fighting a wall of flames would. Accidentally dropped one 100ft off a fuckin cliff fac, NOT A SCRATCH. Ran over, bled on, salted, beaten by volcanic rock and ash, these motherfuckers are a one and done. Stanley? PFFT.

Get a 48oz tritan and be done with it. Pickup a lid thats camelback compatible / slurp lid. The wide mouths are for the cum guzzling wife with a hatch. We gotta move.

3

u/xModusxOperandi Aug 06 '25

I want to hang out with you

4

u/Himalayanyomom Aug 06 '25

Between the 25 & 27, south of the 40 come find me

8

u/Major-Dyel6090 Aug 05 '25

Nalgene bottles were hot 15-20 years ago, popular with health nuts concerned about BPA as well as wine moms and students who wanted to drink in public without getting called out.

Such people have largely moved on to Yeti and Stanley.

3

u/marinuss Aug 06 '25

Been issued in the military even up to fourish years ago. NSW/EOD hasn't issued actual canteens (CIF did), but issued out nalgene bottles as part of the kit.

→ More replies (1)

22

u/pnwmountain Aug 05 '25

Id think you were a dork carrying around a one quart canteen in public like some boot at AIT. Not sure if thats what you were asking.

13

u/dont_forget_the_game Aug 05 '25

My plastic bottle from walmart started to taste awfully plastic. So i had to bring this sucker to the gym for today (because drinking water rocks), and that's were i remembered that i have seen a ton of people recommending Nalgene, so that's mostly why i asked. And based on the responses i'll make sure to get one in the future.

6

u/Senior_Road_8037 Aug 05 '25

Having backpacked with them for years and years, they're convenient, easy to clean, almost unbreakable, good for hot or cold beverages, easy to add flavor or ice too, and are clear so contents are easily verified. I still have the original three I bought for scout hikes as a kid.

6

u/CalgacusLelantos Aug 05 '25

They’ve been the civilian standard for water bottles for thirty or forty years. They’ve also been a manufacturer of plastic medical implements/accessories for longer than that, so they have a long reputation for quality.

4

u/11BRRidgeback Aug 05 '25

Easier to clean and extremely durable. Dropped one off a mountain once, it was fine. Measurement marks are really useful too. Look less tactical. Can actually see inside it, so no hidden mold. Water doesn’t taste like moldy asshole. My only problem is that they are inferior for LBE carry. The kidney shape is a lot more comfortable on belt kits. Nalgene actually makes military style canteens made from their plastic.

5

u/GodFreedomGuns Aug 05 '25

Nalgene Oasis. Combines the two. Canteen pouches are also good mag pouches

10

u/SuicideSaintz Aug 05 '25

Yes, for one thing they don't taste like mold and regret

→ More replies (1)

4

u/BashfullyTrashy Aug 05 '25

I used the Camelbak brand Max Gear 1L pouch in Iraq and after for years on my kit. I still have the pouch, works great. 10/10 recommend. In Iraq we got cases of these 1L bottles. Instead of cross loading to a canteen, id just throw the bottle in that pouch and be done with it. Obviously this was later in the war and we werent rolling around at any MOPP level so no concern of needing to drink wearing a mask.

3

u/Paul_reislaufer Aug 05 '25

I'd say no, just because they suck to carry compared to a canteen. The naglene canteens might actually be better than usgi ones though. Might not be as tough though.

→ More replies (2)

5

u/Dry_Cranberry638 Aug 05 '25

Just for knowledge - the bottle is damn near indestructible but the lid is not 🤣

→ More replies (1)

3

u/snipe_score_celly Aug 06 '25

On top of what everyone else said. If they break, nalgene will 100% no.questions asked replace it. I broke two and nalgene mailed me two replacements.

3

u/BakeDan Aug 06 '25

The only people who like using USGI canteens are those who have never been issued them and forced to drink from them lol. I like nalgenes cuz they’re cheap, durable, and transparent (allows for you to see if it’s getting moldy, not possible with the USGI canteens). There are also canteen shaped nalgenes if you like the shape.

2

u/gunsforevery1 Aug 06 '25

You never cleaned, aired out, or inspected your canteens between use?

→ More replies (2)

3

u/Username_Redacted-0 Aug 06 '25

Go stainless friend, it's have several pathfinder (both the bottles and the canteens) and honestly I have a hard time packing my plastic bottles now because of the utility of the stainless...

5

u/Otto_Tovarus Aug 06 '25

Used both.

Currently issued a clear/lightly "frosted" canteen. And I have 3 naglenes (daily use).

Both have pros and cons.

Was on a winter instructor course last year. I tied my canteen around my neck. Our instructor threw his nalgene in his rig (used a thermo sleeve).

Ymmv.

3

u/12fireandknives Aug 05 '25

Add a platypus filter cap and it’s a simple water solution. Fill outta the creek and go.Ā 

3

u/john_cena_2011 Aug 05 '25

Nalgene also makes canteens in Army canteen form factor that fits the canteen cup and Promask drinking cap. Come in a translucent blue or green/brown if you prefer the traditional canteen form factor.

Also they are relatively inexpensive as well.

3

u/More_Pound_2309 Aug 05 '25

I use a nalgene for day to day stuff canteens for hiking, camping, so on because I was gifted a mostly full set of Alice gear from my dad and I've just built it out because I like it

3

u/AncestralNecromancy Aug 05 '25 edited Aug 05 '25

All of these statements are true. However, canteen shape is better for carrying on your chest rig/LBE/whatever in case you fall on it (and also sticks out less). Luckily, nalgene makes a canteen shaped bottle as well so you can have the best of both worlds

3

u/Flamefox50000 Aug 05 '25

Nalgene also makes canteens. I personally use them because then I know I’m the only person who has touched them

3

u/m67_connoisseur Aug 05 '25

I have used both nalgenes and usgi canteens for years, I honestly prefer the usgi canteen with a CBRN cap for use on body. Even though they are the same amount of fluid, somehow the canteen feels smaller and it hugs the body great. That said, the nalgenes are great in an assault pack, and you can get metal nesting cups for both options.

3

u/shecky444 Aug 06 '25

Several camping companies make water filtration that can be attached or used in line from a Nalgene so the aftermarket goodies are solid too. Also want to echo the indestructible nature of these things. I’ve replaced some lids but some of my bottles are 20+ years old and still going strong.

3

u/CaptMcNapes Aug 06 '25

I have hiked with both. Honestly i hardly notice the difference other than the shape

Difference in weight is near negligible Holds about the same volume Plenty of accessory available for both (pouches ect.)

Nalgene however has some advantages - wide lip, ease of cleaning, life time warranty (havent claimed anything from them yet, so idk how that service is) comes in many colors

And if nesting cups are your thing , there are aftermarket ones that will fit a nalgene bottle

I have moved on from both systems since, and currently using platypus pouches

3

u/Mother-Sector801 Aug 06 '25

Simple explanation, I have a military issue gasmask compatible canteen and I have a Nalgene canteen. It doesn’t smell like a bog, it tastes great, it’s surprisingly durable, and it’s cheap

3

u/Inevitable_Dust_4345 Aug 06 '25

You can pack a lot into one of those. You can store a whole days ration jambes into one and keep it on the car . Life straw fits inside , so you put a lot in for each person .

3

u/AceMckickass7 Aug 06 '25

Nagalene bottles don't form bacteria and stuff if left too long. I have one in my kit I'm building.

3

u/SmallRedBird Aug 06 '25

It's an early 2000s fad that has come back (and I mean early lol, I was rocking one of these in middle school in 2001)

3

u/Limp-ding Aug 06 '25

I can't fit my dick inside a canteen🤷

→ More replies (1)

3

u/NightShift127 Aug 06 '25

The main reason i use it the wider opening makes it more resistant to freezing over and blocking off water in the cold.

3

u/AcanthisittaEarly983 Aug 06 '25

Lol what loser would use a canteen.

3

u/K9turrent Aug 06 '25

Also when it eventually freezes in the winter, it's easier to chip the ice away.

Pro tip: if you put an extra pair of the heavy wool socks on the Nalgene, you can kinda make it into a sudo thermos and keep some hot water/tea slightly warmer for longer.

3

u/BiggWorm1988 Aug 06 '25

Using my hands to carry water around is a better option than a canteen.

2

u/-Captain-07 Aug 05 '25

I just want to know if they are better then carrying a hydration reservoir

9

u/AwkwardSploosh GearNerd Aug 05 '25

They are more durable and less accessibleĀ 

5

u/Jmb9893 Connoisseur of Autism Patches Aug 05 '25

I use a 48 oz nalgene with a tube adaptor. Even easier to access and fill, plus I don't have to worry about a bladder popping in my bag.

2

u/AwkwardSploosh GearNerd Aug 05 '25

Certainly more durable than a bladder, but also a lot less that 3L that a bladder could carry

→ More replies (1)

3

u/Squeeze_Toy2004 Aug 05 '25

Nalgenes are a hell of a lot easier to clean, too.

2

u/Dependent-Diamond-27 Aug 05 '25

They are easier to clean out that's for sure. But they are a little cumbersome compared to a canteen. Their big benefit is I can just get one at the store. But I still run canteens on kit

2

u/rcmp_informant Aug 05 '25

They have cool after market lids and mouth narrowers so you can fit ice and not pour it all on your face when you take a swig of grog

2

u/likeonions Aug 05 '25

i just use a camelbak

2

u/Juniorslothsix Aug 05 '25

Nalgene makes canteen shaped bottles aswell!

They don’t end up making your water taste like plastic, and are nigh indestructible

2

u/BoxofCurveballs Sic Semper Pauperis Aug 05 '25

Canteens freeze and bust. Nalgene's dont.

2

u/eschus2 Aug 05 '25

Anything is better than that canteen

2

u/Zeth224 Aug 05 '25

IDK my go-to is bubba 40 oz damn near indestructible and it's a vacuum bottle so it'll stay cold in the Texas heat

2

u/foldesan Aug 06 '25

The bottle neck of the canteen is disadvantageous in austere cold weather environments when compared to the Nalgene when considering similar variables, e.g., stored upside down to mitigate freezing at the top

2

u/navypiggy1998 Aug 06 '25

I keep my water on the back of my carrier in a camel back (if shit goes sideways i don't want to be desperate for water before I have to) but I use nalgenes when I backpack because easy to pack/stow, easy to clean, available in various sizes, measurements are nice for cooking, durability, easy to work with wide mouth.

2

u/No-Channel960 Aug 06 '25

I like that they are clear, makes filtering sediment pre treatment easier. They won't break or Crack and can actually be used to boil water.

2

u/ohv_ Aug 06 '25

Nalgene fan and get them from REI, the garage sale had them cheap.

2

u/DeadHeadLibertarian Aug 06 '25

Because Nalgene's are superior in every way thats why.

2

u/haydencc911 Aug 06 '25

They also have the nalgene Oasis, which is just a clear usgi canteen shape

2

u/PreciousChud Aug 06 '25

They’re indestructible and available everywhere including like Target and whatnot.

Only times I’ve ever had to replace one is when they got relegated to piss bottle duty and forgot about them in a hot truck in Arizona.

2

u/oh_three_dum_dum Aug 06 '25

I’d argue that they are better as they’re easier to keep clean and are a little more rigid than canteens are. They also come with a variety of openings so you can tailor your bottle to what you plan to use it for. I like the wide mouth bottles usually.

In any case they make pouches for them now not necessarily because they’re better but because they’re one of the more dominant water carrying products on the market.

2

u/p1ggy_smalls Aug 06 '25

The main Nalgene bottle I used on active duty is still going strong 15+ years later.

2

u/LongBow401 Aug 06 '25

Nalgenes have been around forever.. they’re quite indestructible.. I have several of these pouches and have used the same Nalgene bottles for years and years on end every single day of my life

2

u/leighzilla Aug 06 '25

Nalgene fits with many ceramic water filters, great for camping/hiking.

2

u/SmegmaAuGratin Aug 06 '25

I have to give another vote for Nalgene. I have a half dozen of the 32 oz/1L wide mouth version for years, and they're indestructible. I've put them through hell and I've only ever had to replace two lids because the little strap part broke. Ive left a few of them full of water in an old cooler for like a year, and never had a problem with mold. Even if I did they're infinitely more easy to clean than a canteen; and there's never any funky plastic taste in the water.

Theres a lot of aftermarket products that work with them too, like water purifiers and nesting cups.

The one downside is that the measuring marks are only printed on and will definitely wear off. I wish they would mold them into the plastic, but oh well. Not enough of a downside to be a deal breaker either way.

2

u/CaptBuilder Aug 06 '25

I’m sure someone has mentioned it, but wide mouth Nalgenes don’t freeze up as badly as any narrow mouth canteen (USGI, other nalgenes, etc) so they are better to use in freezing conditions. That’s at least why all mine are wide mouth.

2

u/Settled_Science Aug 06 '25

You can put boiling water in them.

2

u/asap_dts just airsoft Aug 06 '25

It’s way easier to clean than the USGI canteens.

2

u/kuangstaaa Aug 06 '25

I can guarantee i haven't spit chew in my nalgene.

2

u/Dyler_Turden17 Aug 06 '25

I’ve used both extensively and will say the only benefit it’s the wide mouth. That’s it. Otherwise they absolutely break if you drop them on their corner. I’ve done this several times. They make really good clear canteens now that aren’t too expensive if you want something transparent. But canteens are wayyy more indestructible

2

u/Electronic-Ad-3825 Aug 06 '25

I can't stand nalgenes. They stick out too much for my liking and I cracked my friend's when I dropped it on a rock. Also I don't get why everyone keeps talking about BPAs. USGI canteens are BPA free and cost $5 new.

2

u/Da-Angry-Inch Aug 06 '25

I got issued one so that’s cool.

2

u/PanzerKatze96 Army Infantry Aug 06 '25

Yes. They are better

Also if you knew how many GIs use those things as piss bottles you’d understand they can mever be clean enough

2

u/Turbulent_Disk2097 Aug 06 '25

I was issued one and I must say that it’s way easier to add mixes and keep an eye on water level

2

u/The_Devin_G Conflicted Gear Addict Aug 06 '25

Well, for one, Nalgene bottles are badass. I've only used the ones you can't see through with the Hdpe plastic, not the harder more brittle clear bottles. So your user experience may vary. It looks like they've either discontinued the ones I buy or I'm just terrible at searching for them.

Long story short, I'm still using one of these that I bought over 10 years ago. It's taken a helluva beating with no leaking issues. But feel free to keep reading if you want to hear how well it's held up.

I accidentally ran it over with my F150 one time because I forgot I left it on the tailgate, no leaking issues. I've tossed it, dropped it, sat on it. Carried it on scorching 116 degree days in the desert, carried it with me at -20 in the winter. It's been with me through pasture fires until it was so smoke covered you couldn't hardly tell it was red anymore. It's been through a lot of field exercises during my time in the military. I've done just about everything except be nice to this bottle, and it's held up through all of that.

I did switch out the cap with a human gear lid after the first year of owning it, which has also held up remarkably well. I also purchased several more identical bottles because I don't know what I'd do without one at this point.

Also I'm not sure what's going on with Nalgene. But it appears they discontinued the Hdpe bottles I like, as well as the stainless bottles, of which I have only one (wanted to pickup another). Kind of disappointed about that to be honest.

2

u/wellsas2 Aug 06 '25

https://imgur.com/a/fKZ9kXN

Nalgene mentioned. Nalgene fucks

2

u/Medic118 Aug 07 '25

Anyone know who makes the Multicam Nalgene bottle holder in the middle folder?

2

u/Electronic-Tree-9715 Aug 07 '25

Nalgene has the same properties as glass except the breaking part. Clear housing also useful and much easier to keep clean

2

u/Heeatinbeans Aug 07 '25

The traditional Nalgene bottle is certainly easier to keep clean since the opening is larger and the shape is more uniform. That being said, I like their version of the USGI canteen. It’s very nice for the price, which is usually 15 bucks.

2

u/knightmiles Aug 06 '25

Marketing. Some Special operator Instagram bro probably had one on his kit and then everybody started gooning to it and now it's all the rage. It's just marketing and social media hype.

2

u/Graywhale12 Aug 05 '25

My brother in Christ, literally 80% of the 1-quart bottles in the market are better than the USGI canteen. How did you think the canteen was selected by the army? Because of its exceptional quality? No, because it was cheaper.

→ More replies (3)

1

u/browsegear Aug 05 '25

I like the wide mouth opening. In my go bags I store 4 or 5 lifeboat water sachets inside so I’m starting out with some water, the sachets have a 5 year shelf life and can be frozen and thawed and won’t bust. If I don’t need it off the go I toss them in a dump pouch.

1

u/roecarbricks Aug 05 '25

If you can find the steel Nalgene bottles you can boil your water, meals directly in the bottle.

1

u/2020blowsdik Connoisseur of Autism Patches Aug 05 '25

My main reason is that I can actually drink out of the thing when we're in the field in freezing conditions (wide mouth specifically)

But also much easier to clean so I can use it as a bowl for chow in a pinch or to mix electrolytes in with the water.

1

u/bhristian57 Aug 05 '25

They take up less space width wise which is nice compared to canteens

1

u/reccespecces Aug 05 '25

Any wide mouth bottle is gonna be better for cold weather, if that’s a factor. 1. Takes longer to freeze at the opening. 2. Can be stored upside down more easily 3. Easier to pour boiling water into 4. Easier to clean if adding calories to your water

1

u/Marshall_12 Aug 05 '25

The flow of the water is way better than canteens, I feel like canteens just edge my thirst when I’m drinking out of them. And also you can take them out and about and not look like a weirdo.

1

u/dragon_sack Aug 05 '25

Wide mouth. Easier to clean and fill with ice.

1

u/featurekreep Aug 05 '25

2 PALS channelsĀ instead of 3. For skinny guys it matters.

Don't love nalgenes, but I do love skinny bottles over canteensĀ 

1

u/GhostRiderOfWhips Aug 05 '25

Nalgenes are perfect for mix-ins, like Gatorade powder or those concentrated drops, and then easier to clean. So for multi-day, I may have a camelbak, a filter system/container for just water (Grayl or Lifestraw), and then a Nalgene with a sandwich bag full of drink mixes. If my camelbak/hydration bladder breaks or gets punctured, I still have containers to drink from and plenty of capacity.

I’m not a fan of trying to drink from the standard style in moreā€”ā€œactiveā€ situations, but they make an infinite number of lid styles you can add on. And they’ve made little insulated molle pouches for them since—2006-ish. We were even issued some and guys would carry Nalgenes in those or flopping around in their drop pouch.

1

u/bearatrooper Aug 06 '25

Didn't see it mentioned, but there's also a shit load of different cap designs available for Nalgene bottles. Very convenient.

1

u/TheNorthernGeek Aug 06 '25

BPA free, easy to clean and you can use them outside of the army without looking like a complete tool lol.

1

u/toolgirl77 Aug 06 '25

USGI canteens are more durable than Nalgene traditional bottles although Nalgene Oasis Canteen bottles are pretty good!

1

u/mrblando Aug 06 '25

Nalgene are great for all the reasons others have mentioned and are the standard for canteens on the civilian side. Also: tons of aftermarket accessories, specifically badass titanium Nalgene canteen cups that are way lighter than USGI canteen cups

1

u/AK-Kidx39 Aug 06 '25

I like mine a lot. I’ve got the narrow mouth bottle. I think it naturally carried over from the camping/outdoor world.

1

u/IcarusTactical Aug 06 '25

No BPA, you can pour BOILING water in them and it’ll be fine. They are clear with markings, wide mouth, super easy to clean, I swear by mine

1

u/PineSoul603 Aug 06 '25

TIL I need to burn the surplus canteens I bought last year. Thank fuck I never used them

1

u/Whiskey_and_Wiretaps Aug 06 '25

Civilian market items are far superior than anything issued by the military

1

u/arrow020 Aug 06 '25

BPA free šŸ‘

1

u/DistributionLess4277 Aug 06 '25

Fun fact: Nalgene also makes a bottle that's the same style/footprint/dimensions and the GI canteen. I've bought three now and love em.

Bonus fun fact: I've heard that if you manage to break a Nalgene, they mail you a new one with a t-shirt stuffed inside that says "I broke a Nalgene" on it.

1

u/4hxxd1hippy2 Aug 06 '25

I have one and I also have a water filter in mine

https://www.epicwaterfilters.com/

They’re made in the USA as well, they make a filter for tap water and an Ā outdoor filter for use in natural bodies of water. Ā Used the outdoor filter can confirm it works never gotten sick and the water taste fine.Ā 

1

u/GoombasFatNutz Aug 06 '25

I have broken 2 canteens but never managed to break a nalgene. They're nigh indestructible, easier to clean and more pleasant to drink from.

1

u/Wise-Recognition2933 Aug 06 '25

Cleaning aside you can put stickers on it without it looking stupid, it’s for the vibes

1

u/gunsforevery1 Aug 06 '25

Canteens are fine. I use/d them all the time.

1

u/Random-lrrelevance Aug 06 '25

If u like your water waterboarding everything u r thirsty

1

u/Little_Napoleon7 Aug 06 '25

At Fort Wainwright, we’re actually issued them with cold weather covers too!

1

u/mattycakes1077 Aug 06 '25

Pouches and a subreddit r/nalgene

1

u/PerceptionVarious443 Aug 06 '25

Imagine going to the gym or theme park with a military canteen

1

u/asvabbust Aug 06 '25

All things mention above. You also dont look like a weirdo at the gym working with a canteen. Its rare to see someone using an issued canteen at a gym on base.

1

u/lead_on_bone Aug 06 '25

While I like both Nalgene and USGI canteens, I prefer to carry USGI or similar traditional canteen shaped bottles against my body due to the taper. The Nalgene bottles are round and don't ride against the body as well from my experience.

1

u/opossumEDCsurvival Aug 06 '25

Nalgene is a good water bottle brand, kind of a staple when it comes to the outdoors. Their durable, has multiple colors and comes in 2 different bottle sizes. Yeti is also a good contender to the nalgene water bottle, and it's called the yonder, I have it I like it it's not bad the only thing that sucks about it is you have to pay an extra 10 bucks if you want the small lid attachment. Now Gene also makes a canteen size water bottle I think it's called the Oasis? If you're into canteens but want to switch from a military style to a clearer plastic to see your water level that's usually my most military people switch to it, that and the water taste is improved. I always hear how terrible the military canteen makes the water taste absolutely horrendous? I don't know but apparently he does šŸ˜‚ but they Oasis canteen comes in I believe four or five different color schemes. I've been thinking of getting one myself but Stanley makes canteens to! they brought back their adventure canteen from years ago. Mine is the owner version of it so it's stainless steel but the newer one that they're selling it I don't think they sell the stainless steel version anymore they did but they stopped the only downside to the Stanley adventure canteen is that it's not your traditional kidney bean shape canteen it's just like the oval so no canteen cups truly fit it, that's the only thing I guess it sucks