Wire to offset jaws

I’m buying some standard jaw traps and need them offset to be legal in my state (1/8 inch). I want the flexibility to take them to another state where an offset is not needed. I’ve heard of using #9 wire or hog rings. Does anybody have any pictures or recommendations?

A bead of weld on each side of one jaw. It can be ground off later

The wire works fine, I’ve used traps that way, but if you have access to a welder I’d go that route. Like he said it can easily be ground off later.

1/8 inch offset would still hold the smaller critters like coons, skunks and possums I'd think. The way coyotes work a trap on their foot I'd b afraid they'd get the wire off and that would b the day the GW would show up to check my traps.

Thanks for the feedback guys. I’ll weld some bubbles and stay away from the wire.

I HATE offsets. Although, 1/8” isn’t much of an offset, lol.

I like offsets. Then again maybe that’s just cause I’ve been forced to use em. Anything #2 or bigger has to have a 3/16ths offset here

I have some old Herters laying around with #9 wire offsets on them. I've never used them, but my dad's uncle used them to catch cats and coyotes. I would go with the welded bubbles on the jaws, they work well and are very little hassle to do if you have a welder.

Why do you hate them?

Mess up the feet, not that it matters really. My other issue is by chance something gets between the jaws just right I now have a missed critter. With closed jaws and something gets between the jaws I just have an offset trap. Yes, it has happened. I’m a target of opportunity trapper…coons, possums, Heaven forbid skunks, all pay. Something that small is getting out in the above scenario. That’s money!