Do the values of traps fluctuate enough that new book purchases are needed yearly? Or could a recent edition be enough to give a good basis? I'm not a collector, but I have a couple old traps that I like cause they're cool looking. I know, that sounds like denial. The value of the trap interest me far less than the history of the trap. But still, kind-of want to know approx value of those I don't want to keep, or those I want to purchase. A lot of my interest has been on the Victors and B&L traps. Especially those that appeared in advertisements from the 30's and 40's (maybe older). As a kid, I'd look through the old magazine/catalog stuff my grandpa had that belonged to his dad. There were no trappers in my family, but that's where my interest started in trapping. I like that the traps from that time period are still around and just as good today. Love the old users on my line! Others, I just like to look at. So if anyone has a book idea to fit my situation, or other suggestion, I'd appreciate it.

I don't think it is necessary to purchase a new price guide every year. As a general rule, prices don't change that much. In fact, prices on the very common collector traps remain pretty much the same over an extended period of time.

Even the old Frodelius & Burt guides are useful when it comes to relative values. You just need to take into account the time factor to get actual prices.

Thank you!

Uh oh Cliff....Don't tell me the bug got ya.

NO! Not me bud! My wife WON'T have it! There's just a few that interest me honestly. Most I could care less. They're cool to look at in someone else's collection. Even fun when I find one someone is looking for. But I think I can stop at a dozen or two. I really like using some of the older traps too. Especially rat traps. Been wondering where you've been. Send me a PM and let me know if you have any specific interest I can keep an eye out for you on. I know you're actually collecting them.

I would not buy every year,Vance has a pocket guide sold on Ebay.Some prices are way high in books and some low.Use a book as a guide as to how rare a trap is, ect.Some traps are one of a kind,1904 Laramie Clutch only 12 ever made,$ 4000 -7000 range.I determine value by how much is in my wallet.Study online forums,american trap collectors, ebay sales,join North American Trap Collectors Association.I think $ 30.00 gets you a bimonthly magazine, well worth the money.Vance 1999 collector guide is a good book.Gertells "Steel Traps of North America" is excellent reference book,contains no pricing.If you can go to State Trapping Shows alot of Antique Traps show up at these events,especially in Northeast USA.Hope this helps a little, Bruce.

Thanks Bruce, I appreciate that info. My wallet doesn't allow for much exploration into the trap collecting world. Most of what I have, like 8 traps, has been obtained through estate auctions. Most would be considered users with readable pans. I've got a couple decent finds. Other than that, general value is interesting and even useful, but I like the history of the trap as a reason to keep it.