Abstract: Filter media having a foraminous sintered metal support structure which exhibits a particle retention pore size in the range of from about 0.5 microns to less than about 5.0 microns and a bubble point test pressure of from 20 to 50 inches of water. A continuous precoat layer of discrete anion and cation exchange resin particles having a minimum diameter of about 10 microns and the following particle size distribution:______________________________________ ______________________________________ Less than 2 Particles greater than 200 microns Less than 2 Particles less than 10 microns ______________________________________is formed upon the sintered metal structure. Liquid is purified by first flowing it through the precoat layer, and then through the pores of the foraminous sintered metal structure.