Why This Skill Matters in an Emergency or Survival Situation

In survival scenarios, securing food is paramount. Figure-4 and Piute deadfall traps are ancient yet effective tools for catching small game like rabbits, squirrels, and birds. These traps require minimal materials and can be set up quickly, making them invaluable in emergency situations where food sources are scarce.

What You Need

Materials

  • 4 straight sticks, each approximately 12 inches long
  • 1 stick, about 24 inches long
  • A small rock or heavy object
  • A length of string or thin cord

Tools

  • Knife or sharp rock for cutting and shaping sticks
  • No specialized tools required

Knowledge

  • Basic understanding of animal behavior and habitats
  • Ability to identify suitable locations for setting traps

Step-by-Step Instructions

Figure-4 Deadfall Trap

  1. Prepare the Sticks: Cut four sticks to about 12 inches each. One of these will be the trigger stick.
  2. Create the Figure-4 Shape: Lay two sticks parallel to each other, about 6 inches apart. Place the third stick perpendicular to the first two, forming a figure-4 shape.
  3. Add the Trigger Stick: Position the fourth stick so that it rests on top of the perpendicular stick and the parallel sticks. This stick acts as the trigger.
  4. Set the Rock: Place the small rock or heavy object on top of the perpendicular stick. This will serve as the weight for the trap.
  5. Secure the Trigger: Tie one end of the string to the trigger stick and the other end to the perpendicular stick. Adjust the tension so that the trigger stick holds the perpendicular stick in place.
  6. Bait the Trap: Place bait near the trigger stick. When the animal touches the bait, it will release the trigger stick, causing the rock to fall and trap the animal.

Piute Deadfall Trap

  1. Prepare the Sticks: Cut two sticks to about 12 inches each and one stick to about 24 inches. The longer stick will be the support for the trap.
  2. Create the Support: Lay the longer stick horizontally on the ground. This will be the base of your trap.
  3. Position the Shorter Sticks: Place the two shorter sticks perpendicular to the longer stick, forming a T-shape. The shorter sticks will act as the trigger and support for the weight.
  4. Add the Weight: Place the small rock or heavy object on top of the T-shape formed by the shorter sticks.
  5. Secure the Trigger: Tie one end of the string to the trigger stick and the other end to the support stick. Adjust the tension so that the trigger stick holds the weight in place.
  6. Bait the Trap: Place bait near the trigger stick. When the animal touches the bait, it will release the trigger stick, causing the weight to fall and trap the animal.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

  • Incorrect Placement: Ensure the trap is set in a location where the target animal is likely to be found. Avoid areas with too much human presence or other predators.
  • Improper Tension: The string should be taut enough to hold the weight but not so tight that it prevents the trigger from releasing properly.
  • Bait Selection: Choose bait that is appealing to the target animal. Fresh meat or seeds can be effective.
  • Safety Precautions: Always check the trap regularly to avoid unnecessary suffering for the trapped animal and to ensure safety.

Variations, Tips, and Related Techniques

  • Camouflage: Use natural materials to camouflage the trap and bait. This reduces the chance of the animal being spooked before it reaches the bait.
  • Multiple Traps: Set up multiple traps in different locations to increase your chances of success.
  • Legal Considerations: Always check local laws and regulations regarding trapping before setting up any traps.
  • Alternative Weights: If rocks are not available, consider using other heavy objects like logs or stones.
  • Trap Efficiency: Experiment with different bait types and trap placements to find the most effective setup for your specific environment and target animal.
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