Basic Cable Device Components

A number of components are required for a cable device to be functional, efficient, and legal in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Here are the basic components that make up cable devices (both cable restraints and snares).

Cable

In Pennsylvania, a cable device must use a galvanized, stranded steel cable with a diameter that is not less than 3/32". It must consist of 7 bundles of 7 wires per bundle (7 x 7), 7 bundles of 19 wires per bundle (7 x 19), or 1 bundle of 19 wires (1 x 19).

Lock

The lock must be designed to close the cable loop easily but not let the loop re-open.

• For cable restraints, the lock must relax when pressure is taken off without allowing the loop to re-open and let the animal escape.
• For snares, the lock may or may not allow the cable loop to release constriction pressure on the captured animal and must not be capable of applying additional closing force when the cable is not taut.

Loop Stops

Loop stops must be designed to prevent the forward or backward movement of the lock, thereby minimizing and maximizing the loop size. Stops are also used to terminate the cable at either end.

Swivels

Swivels are used to prevent the captured animal from twisting the cable and injuring itself or escaping from the cable device.

Breakaway Device

The breakaway device must be designed to allow the cable device to come apart and release the animal at a certain weight (or certain amount of pressure). This component is used to prevent the accidental capture of deer, livestock, and other non-targets.