Bridger Coil Trap Review

First Impressions of Bridger Coil Trap

The Bridger Coil Trap is a name synonymous with reliability and effectiveness in the trapping world. The Bridger brand has been providing trappers with dependable tools for years. I remember hearing stories from seasoned trappers about their trusty Bridger traps, and I was eager to finally test one myself.

My introduction to trapping came from my grandfather, a seasoned outdoorsman. He always emphasized the importance of quality equipment. I was looking for a durable and reliable coil trap for coyote and raccoon trapping on my property, something that could withstand the elements and consistently perform.

The Bridger Coil Trap arrived well-packaged. My initial impression was one of ruggedness and solid construction. The trap felt substantial in my hands, and the metal had a quality feel that cheaper traps often lack. This Bridger Coil Trap seemed promising.

While I’ve used other coil traps like the Duke #3 and the Victor Soft Catch in the past, I was looking for something a bit more robust. The Duke traps felt somewhat flimsy, and the Victor, while gentler on animals, didn’t always have the holding power I needed for larger coyotes. The Bridger Coil Trap seemed like a good balance.

Honestly, I was excited. The Bridger Coil Trap appeared to be exactly what I was looking for – a durable, well-built trap that could handle the rigors of the field and reliably capture target animals. I was eager to get it out and put it to the test.


Real-World Testing: Putting Bridger Coil Trap to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Bridger Coil Trap on my property, primarily targeting coyotes and raccoons in areas where they were causing issues with livestock and poultry. The conditions were typical for early winter in my area. Cold, damp ground and occasional light snow. I set the traps using standard dirt hole sets and baited them with commercial coyote lure and raccoon bait.

The Bridger Coil Trap performed admirably. It was easy to set, even with gloved hands. The heavy base provided stability, and the trap fired quickly and cleanly. Within the first week, I caught two raccoons and a coyote, all held securely by the trap.

I encountered one minor issue during the first week. The night latch dog required a slight adjustment on one of the traps to ensure consistent firing. Once adjusted, it worked perfectly. Otherwise, the first use was a success.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Bridger Coil Trap has proven to be remarkably durable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, even after exposure to rain, snow, and mud. The trap springs remain strong, and the jaws continue to close firmly.

Maintenance has been simple. A quick cleaning and lubrication after each catch is all that’s needed to keep the Bridger Coil Trap in top condition. I’ve noticed no rust or corrosion, even in damp environments. This speaks to the quality of the materials used.

Compared to my previous experiences with other traps, the Bridger Coil Trap stands out for its reliability and holding power. It outperforms the lighter-duty traps I’ve used in the past and gives me confidence that it will hold even larger animals. The Bridger Coil Trap truly gives me peace of mind.

Breaking Down the Features of Bridger Coil Trap

Specifications

The Bridger Coil Trap boasts impressive specifications.

  • It features a double posted pan for reliable triggering. This ensures that the animal steps squarely on the pan, increasing the chances of a successful catch.

  • The trap also has a night latch dog. This provides a more sensitive trigger and reduces the chance of the trap firing prematurely.

  • Thick jaws provide superior holding power. This is crucial for preventing animals from escaping.

  • A heavy base ensures stability and prevents the trap from being pulled or dragged away. Stability is crucial when working with powerful animals.

  • The high levers provide ample leverage for setting the trap. This can be a real help in cold weather when your hands are numb.

  • A locknut secures the trap’s components. It prevents loosening over time, ensuring long-term reliability.

  • The trap comes with 12 inches of machine chain with a swivel on the end. The chain provides a secure connection to the anchor, while the swivel prevents the animal from twisting and breaking the chain.

  • According to the manufacturer, Bridger, the trap is silver in color.

These specifications contribute to the trap’s overall performance and user experience. The robust construction and thoughtful design make it a reliable and effective tool for trapping.

Performance & Functionality

The Bridger Coil Trap excels in its primary function: capturing and holding animals. The trap consistently fires quickly and cleanly. It provides a secure hold that prevents escapes.

Its strengths lie in its durability and reliability. The trap is built to withstand harsh conditions and repeated use. The minor adjustment I made to the night latch dog on one trap was easily rectified, and since then, the trap has performed flawlessly.

Overall, the Bridger Coil Trap meets and exceeds my expectations. It is a well-designed and well-built trap that delivers consistent performance in the field.

Design & Ergonomics

The Bridger Coil Trap features a simple yet effective design. The trap is constructed from high-quality steel. It has a substantial weight that conveys a sense of durability.

The trap is relatively easy to set. The high levers provide ample leverage, even in cold weather. The double posted pan is generously sized. It provides a large target for the animal to step on.

Durability & Maintenance

The Bridger Coil Trap is built to last. The heavy-duty construction and quality materials ensure that it can withstand years of use in harsh environments.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning and lubrication will keep the trap in top condition. The simple design makes it easy to disassemble and reassemble for thorough cleaning.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bridger Coil Trap does not come with any accessories. However, trappers often customize their traps to suit their specific needs.

Common modifications include adding swivels to the chain, using different types of anchors, and painting or dyeing the trap to camouflage it. The Bridger Coil Trap is compatible with most aftermarket trapping accessories. This allows trappers to tailor the trap to their specific trapping style and target species.

Pros and Cons of Bridger Coil Trap

Pros

  • Extremely well built trap: The heavy-duty construction ensures long-lasting performance.

Cons

  • Night latch dog may require adjustment: Some users may need to fine-tune the night latch dog for optimal performance.


  • Thick jaws: Provide a secure and reliable hold on target animals.

  • Heavy base: Offers stability and prevents the trap from being dragged away.

  • Double posted pan: Increases the reliability of the trigger mechanism.

  • Affordable price: The Bridger Coil Trap offers excellent value for the money.

  • No included accessories: The trap does not come with any accessories, such as anchors or bait.

Who Should Buy Bridger Coil Trap?

The Bridger Coil Trap is perfect for:

  • Hunters and trappers targeting coyotes, raccoons, and other medium-sized animals.
  • Individuals looking for a durable and reliable trap that can withstand harsh conditions.
  • Those who appreciate quality craftsmanship and a simple, effective design.

Who should skip this product?

  • Individuals looking for a trap that is ready to use right out of the box, without any adjustments or modifications.
  • Trappers targeting very small or very large animals may need to consider different trap sizes or designs.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

  • Quality anchors to secure the trap to the ground.
  • Swivels to prevent the animal from twisting and breaking the chain.
  • Appropriate bait or lure to attract target animals.

Conclusion on Bridger Coil Trap

The Bridger Coil Trap is a solid, dependable tool for any serious trapper. Its robust construction, reliable triggering mechanism, and powerful jaws make it an excellent choice for capturing and holding medium-sized animals. The Bridger Coil Trap delivers.

The price of $19.99 is more than justified by the trap’s quality and performance. The Bridger Coil Trap offers excellent value for the money.

I would absolutely recommend the Bridger Coil Trap to anyone looking for a reliable and effective coil trap. It is a well-built and thoughtfully designed trap that will provide years of dependable service. Invest in a Bridger Coil Trap today and experience the difference that quality equipment can make.

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