Setting a foothold trap requires careful attention to safety and proper technique.
1. Always wear heavy gloves for protection.
2. Begin by compressing the springs or levers of the trap. This is typically done using your body weight or a specialized tool designed for this purpose.
3. Once the springs are compressed, lay the dog over one of the jaws. The dog should rest securely on the jaw.
4. Next, nest the dog into the pan notch. This ensures that the trap will remain set until triggered.
5. Throughout this process, it's crucial to handle the trap by the baseplate. This provides the most control and reduces the risk of accidental triggering.
6. Any adjustments to the trap should be made from under the free jaw. This approach minimizes the risk of injury if the trap were to close unexpectedly. Always be mindful of your fingers and hands when setting the trap. Keep them clear of the jaws and other moving parts.
7. Once set, carefully place the trap in the desired location
A foothold trap should be released by reversing the setting process, keeping fingers and hands outside the jaw openings.
