I traded for this, actually from a member on here, and I'm don't know what time frame to put this trap in. The chain appears to be original or at least on the trap for a long time but it seems to be unusual compared to most #3s that I have seen. I can see that the springs are stamped but are very light. Opinions please!

early pan stamp but dont think that's NH long link chain....nice trap

That is an early one indeed. And actually a pretty nice pan. I bet it has some weight to it.
Neat chain but was probably added later. I think the early ones could be ordered with or without chains.
I believe it's not the first time that one has been pictured on this forum.

I'm thinking this one is in the 1865-72 time period. Does anyone agree or disagree?

I would say probably about the correct period. I believe they started with the stamped out springs about that time.

Nice trap!

1865 they still had trip hammer springs. Sheet metal springs not till 1870s some time which is what this trap is imo. Are the springs stamped and how long are they?

Chain all wrong

"sheet metal springs not till 1870s".... Could be debatable...

Gerstell says the No.0 was the first with stamped out springs in 1866. I imagine the others were phased in soon after since it was faster and more profitable but probably one of the things we will never know for sure...

They are very lightly stamped. I will check the length this weekend when I get home.

Here are pictures measuring the top of the spring, bottom of the spring, and end to end of whole trap.