Even with the best traps it happens eventually. Hence the three, two, and occasional one footed beaver caught every year.

That said, I have even caught beaver in a 750 where the foot wasn't even in the jaws. A toe was through the lever and the foot got pinned to the side of the jaws. Also had them by the tail, belly, castors (ouch!), etc. Had an otter by the tail...So there are significant benefits to using a quality trap.

As gbus said, learning trap placement is key. I'll add that trap orientation is also important when setting footholds for beaver.

Paw goes between the jaws not over. Got Charlie Dobbins to thank for that info as well as a bunch more good stuff.

What do you do if you have a beaver that fails to follow directions?

Good question, hang a snare and pray LOL

I use a lot of 330's and MB750's. I'd suggest getting some of both and seeing what works best for you. I never had great success with footholds on beaver until I tried the 750's. And snares are definitely cheap enough to pick up a few to try as well. Whatever you choose, good luck!!

i use 330s and #5 bridger coils.i bought 1 no.bs beaver trap to try and have cought some with it.its a fine trap and easyer to set in water with a drowned beaver in it.and i also use #3 bridger.thats what works for me.get you a few and try and you will know what works for you then go with that.every trapper trys some diff traps and thay find what works best for them.

This as well. Learn to use 330's, they really are hard to beat for beavers.