Bridger Coil Trap No. 2 Review

The Bridger Coil Trap No. 2 Made a Bold First Impression

The Bridger Coil Trap No. 2 isn’t just another piece of steel; it’s a commitment to responsible trapping. Bridger, a name synonymous with quality and durability, delivers a trap that feels ready to tackle serious work right out of the box.

My need for a reliable trap stemmed from increasing coyote activity near my poultry. I needed something dependable, humane, and built to last, and the specs of the Bridger Coil Trap No. 2 seemed promising.

Unboxing it was like shaking hands with a seasoned professional; the heft of the heavy base and the solid snap of the jaws spoke volumes about its construction. It exuded a sense of purpose that budget traps simply lack.

Compared to the weaker, smaller traps I’ve used in the past from Victor and Duke, the Bridger Coil Trap No. 2 immediately stood out with its robust build and visibly stronger springs. I chose it over other similar-sized traps based on the reported durability of its components and the positive reviews emphasizing its reliable performance in the field.

My first impression was pure excitement – this wasn’t a flimsy, disposable item; it was a serious tool. I felt confident that this trap could handle the job and provide a humane solution to my problem.

Real-World Testing: Putting Bridger Coil Trap No. 2 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to deploy the Bridger Coil Trap No. 2 was on a crisp November morning, along a known coyote travel route bordering a creek bed. The ground was damp, with a light frost clinging to the vegetation, offering a realistic test of the trap’s functionality.

Despite the slightly frozen ground, the trap set smoothly and firmly, thanks to its strong springs. There were no unexpected releases or malfunctions.

I was immediately impressed by the ease of setting, even with gloved hands, but noted the powerful spring tension would require some caution. After only a few days in the field the trap had done its job.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, exposed to rain, mud, and fluctuating temperatures, the Bridger Coil Trap No. 2 has held up admirably. There are no signs of rust or corrosion on the jaws or springs, suggesting the steel is of good quality and well-protected.

Regular cleaning with a wire brush and light oiling of the moving parts has kept the trap in top working condition. This simple maintenance routine takes only a few minutes and ensures reliable performance for years to come.

Compared to previous traps that quickly developed rust and weakened springs, the Bridger Coil Trap No. 2 has significantly outperformed them. Its robust construction and durable finish promise a much longer service life and greater reliability in demanding conditions.

Breaking Down the Features of Bridger Coil Trap No. 2

Specifications

  • Double Posted Pan: The double-posted pan provides a larger, more stable target for the animal’s foot, ensuring a more consistent trigger response. This increased surface area minimizes the chance of the animal avoiding the trigger and reduces the risk of misfires.
  • Night Latch Dog: The night latch dog is designed for a more sensitive trigger pull, particularly beneficial in low-light conditions or when targeting wary animals. It allows for a lighter touch, increasing the likelihood of a successful catch.
  • Thick Jaws: The thick jaws provide a secure and humane hold, minimizing injury to the captured animal. Their robust construction ensures they won’t bend or break under pressure.
  • Heavy Base: A heavy base adds stability to the trap, preventing it from shifting or being easily dislodged by the animal. This solid foundation ensures the trap stays in place, maximizing its effectiveness.
  • High Levers: High levers provide increased leverage for easier setting of the trap, even in difficult conditions. This makes the trap more user-friendly, especially for those with limited hand strength.
  • Locknut: The locknut ensures the pan tension remains consistent, preventing accidental firing or premature releases. This feature enhances the trap’s reliability and overall safety.
  • 12 in. of Machine Chain with Swivel on End: The 12-inch machine chain offers a strong and durable connection point, while the swivel prevents the animal from twisting and potentially breaking free. This combination provides a secure and humane restraint.
  • Price: $15.99

Performance & Functionality

The Bridger Coil Trap No. 2 performs its job exceptionally well, providing a reliable and humane trapping solution. Its strong springs ensure a quick and decisive capture.

The trap’s strengths lie in its robust construction, reliable trigger mechanism, and humane design. Its only potential weakness is its size, which may be too large for smaller target species.

It far exceeded expectations when I caught a large raccoon without issues. It performed exactly as I had hoped.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Bridger Coil Trap No. 2 is exceptional; the materials feel durable and the construction is solid. Its weight adds to its stability, and the high levers make setting the trap relatively easy.

The trap is relatively user-friendly, although new users may need to practice setting it a few times to become comfortable with the powerful springs. A good pair of trapping gloves is definitely recommended.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Bridger Coil Trap No. 2 should last for many years. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to prevent rust and maintain optimal performance.

The trap is relatively easy to maintain and repair, with replacement parts readily available. Its simple design and robust construction contribute to its long-term durability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bridger Coil Trap No. 2 does not come with any specific accessories, but a variety of aftermarket modifications and enhancements are available. These include different types of anchoring systems, scent lures, and pan covers.

The trap is compatible with a wide range of universal trapping accessories, allowing users to customize it to their specific needs and target species. It can also be used with different chain setups.

Pros and Cons of Bridger Coil Trap No. 2

Pros

  • Extremely Durable Construction: The Bridger Coil Trap No. 2 is built to last, able to withstand harsh conditions and repeated use.
  • Reliable Trigger Mechanism: The double-posted pan and night latch dog ensure consistent and dependable trigger response.
  • Humane Design: The thick jaws and strong springs minimize injury to the captured animal.
  • Easy to Set (with Practice): The high levers provide good leverage, making the trap relatively easy to set.
  • Affordable Price Point: At $15.99, the Bridger Coil Trap No. 2 offers excellent value for its performance and durability.

Cons

  • Strong Spring Tension: The powerful springs can be challenging for some users to handle and require caution when setting.
  • Size May Be Limiting: The No. 2 size may be too large for some smaller target species.


Who Should Buy Bridger Coil Trap No. 2?

The Bridger Coil Trap No. 2 is perfect for experienced trappers targeting medium-sized animals such as coyotes, raccoons, and foxes. It is also a good choice for landowners dealing with nuisance wildlife.

This product might not be the best option for those new to trapping or those targeting very small animals like squirrels or rats. A smaller trap size would be more appropriate in those situations.

Must-have accessories include a good set of trapping gloves, a trowel for burying the trap, and scent lures to attract the target animal. Setting tools would make the entire process easier and safer.

Conclusion on Bridger Coil Trap No. 2

The Bridger Coil Trap No. 2 is a well-built, reliable, and humane trap that offers excellent value for its price. Its robust construction, dependable trigger mechanism, and ease of maintenance make it a worthwhile investment for any serious trapper.

The price of $15.99 is more than justified by the trap’s performance and durability; it’s a far better value than cheaper, less reliable alternatives.

I would absolutely recommend the Bridger Coil Trap No. 2 to anyone looking for a dependable and humane trapping solution. If you’re serious about trapping and want a trap that will last, look no further than the Bridger Coil Trap No. 2 – it’s a true workhorse that will get the job done.


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