Abstract: A water filter including an inlet assembly which comprises a prefiltering foam tip. The inlet hose includes an adjustable float and a weight on the end of the hose which allows a given length at the end of the inlet hose to extend below the surface of the water being filtered. The water filter further includes a check valve assembly to relieve pressure buildup inside the pump. A unique lever-action handle, in combination with a rocking piston, allows efficient filtering with few moving parts. The filter components are easily replaceable. The main filter assembly is suspended resiliently at its periphery to provide shock-absorbing characteristics. The filter also includes an adaptor base which allows for a direct connect between the vessel into which water is filter. The water filter also provides a unique method of storing the inlet hose to render the water filter easy to carry and prevent foreign objects and debris from entering into the area of working parts.