I’ve always trapped water critters and was wanting to trap coyotes an occasional kitty. Can someone explain to me chain length from tram to stake. Will Being to long hurt me? How many swivels are needed? Very much appreciated.

You’re gonna get a ton of different opinions on this. Most people will agree on one thing and that is most like 3 swivels. One at the trap, one mid chain and one at the stake. Some like shock springs and some don’t.

Me personally I like about 18” of chain with 3 swivels and no shock springs. I prefer j c conners rod swivels also.

I like a short chain —. 12-16”…….I usually double staked with rebar. I usually used three swivels but I also don’t think there is such a thing as too many swivels. Canines are some rolling units now……

With a short chain you need to be concerned about a coyote “ pumping” or jumping straight up and down loosening your fastening system—that’s why I double stake. If using a drag you could get away with a longer chain, in fact that might be recommended…… I don’t use drags.

I want enough chain so I don't have to kneel on the ground to set it.

I stand on mine to set them. not a problem short chained. I use drags when I set where they work good. 8-10 feet of chain for drags. Short chain they dont get much momentum

depends on soil.....i like 3 feet of chain in sandy soil so they dont pump the stake out and around a foot of chain in rocky soil.2 to 3 swivels and 18 to 20 inch stakes.

With a midchain swivel most of mine are under 12”.
Jim

18-24” of chain with 3 swivels. I used to be a short chain guy but imo they fight the trap less with longer chain

About 28"long. Swivel at the trap, ~6" of chain, swivel, coyote shock spring, swivel, ~6" of chain and ends in a swivel. I have the opinion of adding: a double stake bracket, chain wolf fang ( depth of drive can be adjusted to the soil type w/o dealing with the cable sticking up out of the hole ) or a drag with 10' chain and a mid swivel, all using quick links. All swivel are welded!