Introduction
Trapping small game is a valuable skill for survival and preparedness. This guide covers various types of snares, including run-through snares, spring snares, T-snares, and pencil snares. Each type has unique features and applications, making them suitable for different environments and target animals. Understanding how to build and set these traps effectively can provide a reliable source of food and resources in survival situations.
Run-Through Snare
A run-through snare is a simple and energy-efficient trap for small animals like rabbits, squirrels, and groundhogs. To build it, you need two 18-inch sticks, 18-20 gauge wire, a knife, and pliers. Sharpen both ends of the sticks and cut 18 inches of wire. Loop each end of the wire around the sticks and secure with twists. Space the sticks 12 inches apart. Create a snare loop by cutting 8-12 inches of wire, looping it around a pencil twice, then threading the wire through the loop to form a 2.5-4 inch diameter circle. Attach the snare to the center of the stick structure. Set the trap in animal trails using natural materials to funnel prey into the snare. Always check local trapping laws before use.
Spring Snare
The spring snare is a versatile trap made from two latching sticks, paracord, and wire. One stick is shaped like an upside-down ‘L’ and sharpened at the end. The second stick must fit into the ‘L’ shape. Cut 15-30 inches of wire. Loop it around a pencil twice, then twist the ends together. Form a 3-10 inch diameter loop on the wire (size depends on target animal). Attach the wire loop to the latching stick’s bottom. Tie paracord to a flexible sapling and stretch it to the latching stick’s top. Insert the ‘L’ stick into the ground, then push the latching stick down to lock with it. Ensure the snare is upright and ready.
T-Snare Trap
To create a T-snare trap for small animals, gather a heavy knife, two straight vertical sticks (2-3 feet), a shorter horizontal stick (1.5-2.5 feet), a small trigger stick (2-4 inches), string or wire, and a springy sapling. Position the vertical sticks 6-12 inches apart, notching them to cradle the horizontal stick. Carve a ‘C’ shaped notch in the trigger stick and attach a loop of string to its end. Secure the sapling horizontally across the vertical sticks, with the trigger stick resting on the horizontal bar. Tie one end of the string to the sapling and the other to the trigger stick’s loop, forming a snare. Test the trap by pulling the trigger to ensure the sapling’s spring tension tightens the snare. Set traps near animal paths near water or food sources, using natural barriers to funnel animals into the trap. Check traps daily to avoid prolonged suffering.
Pencil Snare
The pencil snare is an effective trap for small animals like chipmunks, squirrels, and rabbits. To build it, gather 20-gauge wire, two 12-18 inch sticks (carved with grooves), one 12-inch thin stick (pencil stick), paracord, a knife, pliers, and a thin twig. Identify animal trails using scat, footprints, or trampled grass. Secure paracord to a flexible sapling. Carve grooves into the top of two sticks and sharpen their ends. Insert sticks into the ground with grooves facing each other, spaced equal to the pencil stick’s length. Cut 10-12 inches of wire. Loop wire around a pencil/twig twice, then twist the loop to the wire’s end. Form a 2.5-3 inch diameter loop on the wire and attach it to the pencil stick’s midpoint. Pull paracord from the sapling down to the sticks, tie it to the pencil stick, then insert the pencil stick between the grooved sticks. When an animal enters the snare’s loop, it pushes the pencil stick out of the groove, releasing the sapling’s tension and snapping the snare shut.
Key Takeaways
- Run-through snares are simple and effective for small game.
- Spring snares use latching sticks and saplings for added tension.
- T-snares require precise setup with vertical and horizontal sticks.
- Pencil snares are compact and efficient for small animals.
Conclusion
Building and setting snares is a crucial survival skill. Each type of snare has its unique advantages and applications. By mastering these techniques, you can ensure a reliable food source in survival situations. Always check local laws and regulations before setting traps.