Mole Reaper Trap Setting Instructions
Do not set the Mole Reaper Mole Trap the way you would a Victor Out O’Sight (OOS). Using that setting method will result in missed catches.
Read the steps below and watch all four instructional videos before setting your traps. The videos are linked at the end of this page and are also available in the Mole Reaper Mole Trap product gallery.
1. Locate Both Directions of the Tunnel
Open a very small section of the tunnel, no wider than 2 to 3 inches, so you can find where the tunnel goes in both directions.
2. Widen the Opening
Finish opening the tunnel to a width slightly narrower than the trap, a little less than 4 inches.
3. Clear Loose Dirt
Use a spoon to clean out any dirt pushed down either side of the tunnel during excavation. This step is extremely important.
4. Position the Unset Trap
Place the unset trap in the run until its legs touch the tunnel floor. Push the trap an additional 1/4 to 1/2 inch into the floor to establish the proper depth.
5. Check That the Jaws Close Completely
Using the setting tool, cycle the trap open and closed several times until you feel the jaws close completely. Apply light downward pressure while cycling the trap to keep it bedded and prevent it from rising.
6. Set the Trap in the Tunnel
Once the jaws open and close freely and completely, set the trap while it is down in the tunnel. Do not remove the trap from the tunnel to set it.
The trap is at the proper depth when the trigger pan rests on the tunnel floor or just above it, approximately 1/2 inch.
If the trigger pan rubs or binds against the far side of the tunnel while setting the trap, remove only enough dirt to let it pivot freely. Also make sure the trigger bar (dog) has enough clearance to pivot up and out of the tunnel when the trap fires.
7. Backfill Around the Trap
Backfill between the trap legs and around the trigger pan. Try to keep all backfill between the legs so dirt does not funnel back down either side of the tunnel.
Remove stones from the backfill. Add enough soil to prevent light from entering the tunnel. A good rule of thumb is to bring the backfill up over the spring.