Anyone use comstock brand cage average 12x10x30 traps..........for ground hog and racoon.....are they worth the expense .........or is it the trigger makes them better....have 2 old (don't know brand) for around barn nuisance use ....over years...racoon and groundhog have damaged beyond repair

The short answer is "yes."

Comstock traps are built like a tank. The springs are crazy strong. It's difficult for the animal to avoid the trigger system, but I have seen videos of this happening. I would think this is rare and I wouldn't let it deter anyone from buying one.

It can be placed in any position- on its side, upside down, mounted straight up, & etc. Be sure one door is recessed, so it can be used more easily with positive sets.

A catch will not escape this trap.

While the trigger system is a strength of this system, it's also a weak spot. The triggers almost always pop off while the animal is in the trap (as intended). When carrying the trap back to the truck, the wire trigger will sometimes fall out between the 1/2 x 1" mesh. This can be frustrating when you get back to the shop and discover one or both are missing and you have no extras. Buy extra triggers!!! This issue could be solved with a larger mounting post, in my opinion.

Some of my Comstocks have a gap between the door and cage walls, so triggers will slide out there as well. I've had raccoons get their front paws outside of the trap using this gap, so be sure to have a board under the trap that extends out at least 3- 4" on sensitive "ground" like a roof or deck, for example. Buy extra triggers!

Placing the triggers back on the trigger post is a bit gross when the trap is full of scat. Wear gloves and buy extra triggers.

Personally, I like the 36" length for raccoons because they have to go deeper into the trap before hitting the trigger. That's not based on any s ience, just my thought. I have the 30" for groundhogs & opossums. That being said, i have caught raccoons in the shorter trap as a non-target.

Despite the above feedback, Comstocks are solid and are my preferred trap. Don't be afraid to pull the trigger (& buy extras)!

Make sure the type of trapping you want to do is right for the trap. For example, Comstocks are harder to use for bait trapping.

I have the 30” comstock with a flush mount door. I also purchased a nosecone. The flush mount is great for using on coons n attics via soffits. I use the nosecone for groundhogs in their dens. You will not be disappointed with them. I have baited coons with a baggy of marshmallows ran through the triggers. Coon pulls the bag and triggers the trap.

We are stocking up on the 36" flush mount double doors. Endless possibilities to set and we are buying the nose cones as well. These traps will eventually take the Lionshare of our ADC business. Additionally, we have purchased the chimney trap and the double door beaver traps work outstanding on beavers and double as armadillo traps.