what components for a PSK-style trapping/snare kit?

1

11x11x

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May 21, 2008
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I want to build two kits for gathering wild game. One that will be small for an altiods tin type PSK, and a larger, more inclusive game trapping kit for carry in a pack, etc.

What would be some quality items for upland bird, tree/ground squirrel, rabbit, and hare?
 
TrappingLayout.jpg


This is a picture of a larger snare/game kit. I've made a smaller one that is actually a soft-sided zip pouch (a set of three various sizes sold at Home Depot)...it's about 7x9" and when packed, about an inch thick (sorry no pictures yet):

8 small/medium snares
50 feet of brass (24 gauge) wire
Small Frog gig
2 Yo-Yo reels/snares
3 Speedhooks
550-cord, braided...about 12 feet
2 small titanium tent stakes (for anchoring if needed)

It's good for the pack but not a tin-sized PSK. I really like the frog gig!

I also have a separate fishing kit (and just made a mini one yesterday)...here's the small container one (just a hair bigger than a film canister):

Fish2.jpg


ROCK6
 
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stainless steel wire in 20-24 gauge wrapped around sewing bobbins provide a light/compact weigh to carry snare wire

24gaugebobbin.jpg


I carry ~ 50' of 30# Spectra fishing line, mostly for sewing/repair, but can be used in a pinch for snares

there are commercial small snares available that have built in locks
 
The Spectra fishing line is a great recommendation and I always have a spool or two of those!:thumbup:

Here's a better picture of my smaller snare-game kit along with my mini fishing kit (still enough room for another half-dozen smaller hooks):

There are actually 12 snares in my kits (three different sizes).

SmallSnareKit.jpg


SnareKitBag.jpg


MiniFishingKit.jpg


MiniFishingKitComparison.jpg


I'm going to try out the mini fishing kit this weekend as we have a great over-hanging tree with a lot of little brim; I'll try both lures and live bait (crickets and grass hoppers).

ROCK6
 
Thanks Rock6 for the pictures and descriptive details, that will make an excellent refrence!
 
I carry some brass wire and some spectra line for various things, including snares. I also have a few large rat traps in my truck kit. I don't have a dedicated snare kit. Food's just too low on the priority list. If I'm unable to walk out, it's because I'm hurt pretty badly and can't walk. I probably wouldn't be able to set up a line of snares or fish for that matter either.

I still carry some "just because" (I'm a creature of habit and we carried them in our military SERE kits). However, I can't imagine a scenario that involved me using them now.
 
IA Woodsman said:
Thanks Rock. That is a very nice kit you have, very versatile.
Click to expand...

Thanks! I really liked the way you doubled up the brass wire. I usually use mine for squirrels and will just make a dozen or so with single strand. The other snares are sized for rabbits and larger.

ROCK6
 
Rock,
Great kit! Looks like a Buckshot inspired kit and reminds me of the one recommended in 6 In 12 out.
All about the chow.
 
Braided nylon cord would be my first choice.

It is extremely strong and can generally be used over and over again (wire kinks). I also think that it is kinder to the animals and you have a chance of releasing any unwanted catch with minimum injury. I seldom use a snare lock or locking knot and I've caught hundreds of animals with synthetic cord.

Nylon has a good degree of stretch which is gentler to the animal and may also reduce the chance of breakage due to shock.

A reasonably heavy, sharp knife is very useful when setting snares. Sometimes you need support pegs and often it can be good to lay brush down to help funnel the animals into the snare. A light knife will suffice, but a heavier one will give you more chopping ability... thus speeding things up.

A good knife will also enable you to make simple deadfall triggers. These can be set up under rocks or logs to catch small animals.

Knowledge of the terrain and the game animals is very important. You might have the gear to set 100 traps, but to catch anything they have to be set in the best possible location.

From experience I have to say that you need to set several traps at the same time if you need to get meat quickly. Typically I might get zero to six animals from 20 snares.

Best wishes.... Coote.
 
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