Small Deadfall Traps

This is how I currently make and set three different types of small deadfall trap.... the Figure Four, the Paiute, and the Promontory Peg. Although i've mostly used the Figure Four deadfall for catching pests, the other two types can work well and may be the best option in some circumstances.

Setting deadfalls can be frustrating. One very important thing is to have a weight that does not slide around. When set on soft ground you may be able to drive in a couple of small pegs to help hold the weight steady. When setting a trap around structures, you may be able to jam the base of the weight against a wall. Sometimes placing rocks at the base may make it stable. It can be worth spending a bit of time to find or create a stable weight.

With only two hands it can be hard to set up a trigger. I sometimes jam the back of my hand under the weight, leaving my fingers free to manipulate the trigger sticks. With experience, it can become easier.

It is best to ensure that you don't get bait or lure on any part of the trigger other than the end of the bait stick that is well under the weight... this helps ensure that rodents wont chew at the parts of the trigger assembly that are not under the weight. In some circumstances you don't need to use any bait on the trigger stick of a Paiute deadfall.