I am getting to the end of my trapping budget, and I know it is not ideal to buy cheap traps, but I would like suggestions.my state requires offset/rubber between 5-6 inches and nothing above 6 inches.

thanks as always!

Coyotes are well known for destroying small cheap traps. Save and buy mb 550's

#3 or #4 offset Victor double long springs, where are you located in Arkansas?

I've caught plenty in both Bridger and Duke #2s. Neither are terribly expensive and should fall within your parameters.

Does that mean you can use either offsets or rubber jaws? If you can use offsets I would buy #2 Duke offsets.
They are 4 coiled and are a well built trap that won't cost you a arm and a leg. And you can also get them In the dog-less type

Trap shed and conventions are your friend. If you need to buy new look at duke or wolf creek.

Murray’s has Duke 3’s offset for $100/dozen. 6” jaw spread

either rubber or offset

I caught a lot of coyotes in 1.5 Victor, Montgomery RJ and Duke traps way back before I found trapperman and found out they won't work on coyotes. I believe Leggett's caught 600+ in a season in Victor 1.75 (same trap as a Duke 1.75). I can't recall the exact number its been many years since I watched their video on it. (Great video BTW if you're an aspiring coyote trapper.)

To answer your question with your regulations, the Duke 1 3/4 with offset jaws is the best choice for cheap coyote trap.

^^

If he is allowed a trap with a 6” jaw spread, why do you feel a trap with a 5 1/4” jaw spread is his best choice for a cheap trap?

I have caught coyotes in number 2 Duke coils. A trap I use in higher human traffic areas.

I mean if you got a welder alot if things can be done with duke traps...

I like #3 Victor Montgomery traps

Because they are cheaper and plenty sufficient to hold coyotes. You go bigger and they cost more. Proper set making and guiding should get you the same results with these as any #2 trap. The pan they need to step on is the same size.

I sure like the monty/ victor dog less #2 just rechain them an go.
Big pan and about 2 1/2 pounds pan tension out of the box.
Good holding trap for the money.

I'm still using 1.75 Victors and still catching plenty of coyotes in them. I guess I don't read well. Another tip is you can buy used 1.75's pretty reasonable from those who have found out they won't work on coyotes. Slap a couple of #2 music wire springs on them and you've got a nice little trap.

Not that I have caught as many as some on here but everyone I have caught has been in a 1 3/4 Duke. First started with close jaws now all are offset. My pan tension is on the heavy side but that has gotten me deep pad catches, I would suggest base plating them.

I got some Wolf Creek #1.5 Eliminators and modified them. Let me tell you, you CAN'T beat them for the price!

Wasn't duke traps one of your YouTube sponsors........