Duke Pro Series 650 OS Jaw Review

The Duke Pro Series 650 OS Jaw Made a Bold First Impression

The Duke Pro Series 650 OS Jaw, from Duke, promises to be a serious tool for serious trappers. Its oversized jaw spread suggests a focus on larger target animals, offering a potentially more humane and efficient trapping experience.

I’ve spent the last decade navigating the intricacies of trapping, constantly seeking that balance between effective capture and ethical treatment of wildlife. My typical target is coyote, but I’ve occasionally dealt with bobcat issues on local farms too. Existing traps were either too small, leading to potential escapes, or too cumbersome to set quickly in varied terrain.

The moment I unboxed the Duke Pro Series 650 OS Jaw, I was struck by its robust construction. The steel felt solid, the springs looked powerful, and the overall design exuded a sense of purpose.

I was choosing between this trap, the comparable Minnesota Brand #3 Coil Spring Trap, and the Sterling MJ600. I needed the jaw spread and power of the Duke Pro Series 650 OS Jaw without paying a premium. The other two are known reliable brands, but in the end the perceived build quality and price point of the Duke Pro Series 650 OS Jaw won me over.

My initial reaction was a mixture of excitement and respect. This wasn’t some flimsy piece of equipment; it was a tool designed to perform a specific job and to do it well.

Real-World Testing: Putting Duke Pro Series 650 OS Jaw to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to deploy the Duke Pro Series 650 OS Jaw came during a late-season coyote trapping expedition in the high desert of Nevada. The terrain was unforgiving – a mix of rocky soil, sparse vegetation, and wide-open spaces. I set up a dirt hole set baited with gland lure.

The Duke Pro Series 650 OS Jaw performed admirably in the harsh conditions. Despite the dry, dusty environment, the trap functioned smoothly. No issues with the dog release or excessive trigger play were noted.

There was a bit of a learning curve in finding the right tension setting for the trigger, which is something you encounter with most new traps. I did have to adjust the pan tension slightly to avoid premature firing from smaller animals.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks and multiple sets, the Duke Pro Series 650 OS Jaw continues to impress. There is no noticeable wear or tear, even after being subjected to the elements and the occasional near-miss from larger livestock. The springs retain their strength and the trap continues to fire reliably.

Maintaining the trap is straightforward. A quick scrub with a wire brush to remove any dirt or debris, followed by a light coating of oil, keeps it in prime condition.

Compared to my older traps, the Duke Pro Series 650 OS Jaw provides a noticeable increase in holding power and a reduction in escape attempts. It surpasses other traps in its price range based on construction alone.

Breaking Down the Features of Duke Pro Series 650 OS Jaw

Specifications

• Jaw Spread: 6.75 inches. This generous jaw spread increases the likelihood of a solid catch and is ideal for target animals such as coyote and bobcat.
• Target Animal: Coyote and Bobcat. The trap’s size and power are specifically designed for these medium-sized predators.
• Construction: Heavy-duty steel construction. This ensures durability and longevity, even in harsh environmental conditions.
• Springs: Heavy-duty coil springs. These provide fast, powerful closure for a humane and secure catch.
• Trigger Mechanism: Adjustable pan tension. Allows customization based on target species and environmental conditions.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the effectiveness and ethical considerations of trapping. The larger jaw spread reduces the risk of foot damage and increases catch rate. The strong springs ensure a swift and humane dispatch. The adjustable pan tension adds versatility and reduces non-target catches.

Performance & Functionality

The Duke Pro Series 650 OS Jaw performs its primary function—capturing coyote and bobcat—exceptionally well. The trap consistently fires reliably, providing a strong and secure hold.

The trap’s strengths lie in its robust construction, powerful springs, and adjustable trigger. One potential weakness is the lack of integrated chain swivels, which can be easily added but would be a welcome factory addition.

The Duke Pro Series 650 OS Jaw meets and, in some aspects, exceeds expectations for a trap in this category. Its build quality and performance are commendable, offering great value for the price.

Design & Ergonomics

The Duke Pro Series 650 OS Jaw features a simple, functional design. The trap is relatively lightweight, making it easy to carry and set in remote locations.

While there isn’t much in the way of “ergonomics” in a trap design, the ease of setting and adjusting the trigger tension contributes to a more user-friendly experience. There isn’t much of a learning curve, but familiarity with trap setting is recommended.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its heavy-duty steel construction, the Duke Pro Series 650 OS Jaw is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only basic cleaning and lubrication. Replacing worn or damaged parts is usually possible with standard trapping tools and readily available components.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Duke Pro Series 650 OS Jaw comes as a standalone trap. No accessories are included.

However, there are several readily available accessories and customization options. Adding chain swivels to prevent animals from twisting free is a common modification. Also, some trappers choose to dye or wax their traps to reduce scent and prevent rust.

Pros and Cons of Duke Pro Series 650 OS Jaw