Swivels

When using foothold traps or snares, swivels are very important. Swivels allow traps to move freely in the same direction as the animal’s movement.

• Different types of swivels may be used to fasten a trap’s chain to a stake. These swivels include lap-link swivels, stake swivels, universal (four-way) swivels, and cross-staking swivels.
• Universal swivels also may be used in the middle of a trap chain or can attach a chain to a trap at the center of the base plate.
• It is best to use two or more swivels with a foothold trap or snare.
• Various swivels may be used with sliding locks to construct a drowning set.
• Responsible trappers use high-quality swivels to construct effective, humane sets. If swivels are not used correctly with live-restraining traps, a trapped animal may be able to twist the trap chain until it is easy to pull out of the trap, which may injure the animal.