Description
The 330 bodygrip (commonly referred to as 330 Conibear) is the essential beaver trap. It’s a double springed body gripper with a 10″x10″ jaw spread (this varies a bit among make). The trap is just the right sized opening to catch beaver and otter, and provides a quick, humane kill. Because of the nature of water trapping, blind sets with 330 traps are highly effective and make trapping quite simple.
Uses
The 330 is most commonly used to trap beaver and otter. It has emerged as the most popular beaver trap on the market. In addition, it’s sometimes possible to prevent catches of otter (where that is desired) by moving the trigger location within the trap opening. In some cases with low human and pet traffic, trappers use these traps on the ground for other furbearers. Trappers in remote Alaska and Canada often use the 330 to catch wolverine, lynx and the occasional fox.
Pro’s: provides a quick, humane kill. easy to use in water trapping, just the right size to fill most beaver/otter travel ways
Con’s: somewhat dangerous to set due to its strength. can be harmful to nontarget animals when set in the wrong place. difficult for young trappers to set.
Makes and Models
Victor – good, solid trap. sets the standard for Conibear traps. A bit pricey.
Bridger – great quality for the price. impressive trap. has a bit larger opening (10.5″x10″), which I like.
Duke – lower quality steel, these 330’s can really get beat up and bent under heavy use. smaller jaw opening (10″x9″), which is good for otter, and I have found it to be convenient when beaver trapping in shallow water where traps must be submerged. low price makes these a good entry level trap.
Sleepy Creek – they call this trap the #1000. I’ve never used them. They seem a bit pricey.
Belisle – top of the line, highest quality, the ‘Cadillac’ of bodygrip traps. I haven’t used them due to their high price.