J & B Trapping and Baking Supply

There is presently a fair amount of debate and discussion concerning the best way to trap bears. As such, I think a review of my preferred means might be helpful for those with questions.
The # 6 bear trap (see photo in my pictures) has long been a favorite of serious and hobby trappers alike. The classic double-​long spring mechanism ensures a strong snare and can be counted on fairly reliably to hold a bear’s leg (Unfortunately my trapping experience is mostly limited to Black and Brown bears, but I would feel confident trapping Kodiak’s and Grizzlies with it too.) Keep in mind that this is a leg trap, so skill and experience is required as to how/​where bait is set and subsequent placement of the trap. It weighs a formidable 42 pounds and is over three feet long – making a ‘trap line’ virtually impossible. Careful planning as to the placement is required, as it just isn’t practical to set a string of traps. I once new a trapper in Montana who would carry three at a time on a large pack frame, but the standard trapper usually carries just one. Often people are intimidated by the sheer magnitude and force that the # 6 trap wields. I’m sure we’ve all heard stories about someone losing a hand when setting one – although I’m sure this could happen, I have personally never met anyone who has lost their hand in a bear trap. Usually, people lose their hands from not working hard enough on rubber plantations, not paying attention when they’re grinding hamburger, grain-​auger accidents and the like. With a little practice and skill, you should be able to set this trap with ease – if you’re not strong enough to set the trap or carry it around, you probably shouldn’t be trapping bears in the first place. I must say the hard work pays off – there is nothing quite like the thrill of walking up on your trap site and seeing a bear thrashing about, ensnared in your trap, for the first time. I usually finish the bear off with a .357, although a lot of people prefer a .44. My friend Jimmy uses a .300 Weatherby Magnum, obviously a lethal and effective choice, but it’s a lot of extra weight to pack around. Nothing breaks my heart more than to see homes and businesses using these traps for display. These bad boys were designed to trap bears, and when properly maintained, can last for hundreds of years.