And 95% of the trappers that trap rats will never see population densities of the magnitude that Beav describes so for the majority of rats harvested across the U.S. do guys weaken their springs when they catch 50 - 200 rats/season? That's a question each guy has to answer himself. Once weakened you can't stiffen the spring back up if you want vs. buy some other tool (#1 LS's at 1.00-2.00 ea or #2 V SJ coils @ 4.00-5.00 ea. that can also act as a killer trap). A specific trap that fits a specific method. Weight, thievery, trap mechanic time etc., are factors along with what trap you choose. Your best path might be to ask any LOCAL guys who are rat harvesters in the same situation you will trap in/around. Local experience Trumps (LOL) keyboard experience every time. Or like Beav suggests, try a dozen of each, if in doubt and when you catch 3000 let us in on your choice..................................... the mike. ................. enclosed is this years 2 rats in a 330 BG, does that count for anything?. ...........the (any trap works) mike

Lots of good info here from experienced guys....and lots of used traps for sale now....fairly cheap too.

Actually the 220 BG was and is a great rat trap.

I know a few big-time rat trappers here in WI that use wakened foot holds for rats and their numbers would put a 3000-nose count to shame.

I'll say it again It's not how many you catch It's how many you miss.

Beav has a point. try it. 6 traps, whatever.

Our greatest flaw is over confidence and stubbornness. Nature sometimes defies “logic”.

Serious trapping generates humility. Humility should create growth.

Don’t be scared. Dip a toe. Believe

I dont live in rat country per say, but stronger traps do catch rats. maybe the rats were lucky and standing on the dead spot on the pan. I use 1 1/2 & 2 coilsprings for mink. I cant say because I never saw one working my set and use a lot more 110s and 160s vs footholds.

They are your traps bud. Give it a try if you want to. At this point I'd do it to irritate the folks that are so adamant that you shouldn't do it. lol