The amount of chain is an often overlooked component of the drag. The best drag will be compromised if its connected with short chain. On the other hand, adding extra chain keeps the drag on the ground where it can hang up and make a lot more sign. When in doubt, add extra chain. Its pretty cheap.

Badger often don't move a drag out of its bed . . . but they will tear up a tennis court size area digging around.

Greys are low to the ground, so the drag is not as important as the amount of chain. Give them 8 feet of chain and a tiny drag, and you're good. Less chain and the drag has to be heavier.

Cats depends entirely on the individual cat and its topography. Big toms will often go a long way in open country. Smaller cats and females are often tangled in the first bush they come to.

Coyotes -- there is no rhyme or reason. If you think they will go a mile, they hang up within 6 feet of the trap. If you think they can't go anywhere because of heavy/thick brush, they will go forever. Again, long chain keeps the drag on the ground and making tracks.

I’m making some drags for cats. How much chain do you typically run down here in the rocky, low brush country?

I can some what steer the direction of departure with an angled stick driven into the ground, pointed the way I want him to go. Hook the drag so it will only slip off one way. One spot I use this is where I don't want him to go up, down, or across the road. Another is where I want him down over the edge. The words never or always do not apply here.

Wow, wolfdog, I'll have to have you teach me how to make drags! That was impressive!