Helfrich Trap info

Seeking some info on the Helfrich traps...
Digging thru my traps and found some 450's and a 550.
Are these still being made ?

Also ran into some older BMI's that are 4 coiled behind the levers...look like it would be a nasty job to respring these. I see they are still being manufactured but are sprung with a spring pin as most newer traps are.

I've had these for over 30 years and finding them sparked my interest.
Thanks for any info.

I hope you got a whole bunch of the Helfrichs. Pretty sure they are no longer made and my book shows them at about $35 for the 450s and around $50 for the 550s. The ones I've seen had heavy cast jaws.

I think your statement about re springing the BMIs is exactly why they changed the design.
Speaking of BMI; Have you ever heard the name Frank Elinchik?

Helfrich traps were made in the early 1980s. They came in 3 sizes - 450, 550, 750.

A fascinating trigger system for it's time.

Digger dales prices might be a bit high, especially on traps that have seen some use.

Thanks for the info guys ... much appreciated.

I only have 4 of the Helfrich's ... 3 of the #450's and 1 of the #550 with a 450 stamped pan for whatever reason ??

Have 12 of the old style BMI's. Will most likely trade off or sell these traps for other traps in the near future.
I don't ever remember of hearing that name in relation to BMI.

I've been out of the trapping world since 1986. Life, work, marriage ,kids .. etc .. and am looking forward to retirement in about 1&1/2 years from now. Can't wait to start up again.

Thanks again !!

Helfrich himself actually came on here a few years ago to answer the "wrong pan".....but basically, to paraphrase, they ran out of pans for the one size so started just using the extra pans from the other size.....I have a few with the "wrong pan" and I see them mentioned/advertised here all the time with the same issue....

MZ