This is eye opening, I didn't realize so many people were using quick links, especially for coyote traps. I've been thinking about switching from 100% J-hooks to quick links for a while now. Mainly because I prep all my predator traps the exact same way but I've learned that I don't really know how I want to stake it until I'm standing over a potential set location, and sometimes the stake method I have on there isn't what I need in that moment.
Sometimes I want 12" of cable at the end of my chain, sometimes I want 18". A quick link would make it easier for me to just attach what I need at the time. Especially if it turned into a spot where a drag would be better than a stake.
Also, those cables are a real PITA when all the traps are thrown into a bin together ahead of time. I've tried to be more organized and wrap each individual trap but it never works out that way. Chain doesn't tangle near as bad as the cables do, plus I feel like it can hurt the integrity of the cable if it gets twisted or bent before setting. Might end up making the switch. I've used them on water traps but never on coyote traps or anything on land, really. Appreciate everybody chiming in.
J-hooks. I have a bag of new jhooks(don't reuse them) and a set ron marsh jhook pliers in my bag. I don't attach anchor until trap goes in ground as like you say....they tangle up terribly.