Wanting to buy some otter traps. It would be nice to use them for other stuff as well so I want to stick with coilspring.

The problem I have with my current traps is that they are base plated the J hook is in the middle, so heavy current tips the trap up. Is there an easy solution to this? Should I buy one where chain attaches to the side?

Is there room,below the jaw tips to drill for a J hook?

Yes I think so but also all my traps are offset. Not ideal for otter.

Is the only reason why traps have the J hook in the middle of the base because it is stronger when pulling from that direction?
I could get some four coil #3s or #2s and move the J hook. Probably still not have a problem with yotes.

All of the new Montgomery traps are swiveled at one end under the spring lever.

With your current traps could you take a small zip tie to hold your chain to the side of the frame to help keep them from tipping but still be center attached. Just brain storming here
Justin

I think you mean Montana. Because it looks like all the Montgomery are centered.


Good idea I will try it.

For toilets i like 1 1/2 duke or 13/4 the sguare jaw edges and strong springs are an advantage here over the high end traps

Forest,
All of the Monty #3's I have are end swiveled. Pictures on F&T show that. Yes, Montanas are also end swiveled.

i use the 750 as i have many of them. Great otter trap in my opinion.

I guess I don't understand how the current Is tipping up the trap. Are you digging any sort of a trap bed so The trap Is level with the bottom? If you would bury your chain I can't see how the current can raise up your trap.

I use my beaver traps, 750s and CDRs, but the first otter I caught were in Victor 1 1/2 coils, or #2s square jawed victors and Northwoods. And that #2 sized trap is what I used when intentionally setting for otter when I didn't own beaver traps yet. A 165 Bridger will hold just about any otter too, and I use mine for water traps.

Otters aren't hard to hold. but swivels are very important! they roll and twist like no other. Drowner wires prove that most I find are wrapped around the wire. A pile of otters have met there makers to 1.5 coils

If your looking for an all round trap. You can use # 11's from rats to beaver !