A couple questions about old traps and parts.

First of all, how old might this "no V" #4 be?




It doesn't have a chain so would one like this be correct?


And finally, is this swivel from a 3N trap or just something from the hardware store? I know the chain isn't correct for it but I know I've seen swivels like that on traps before.

1908 or older

Don't know about the chain.

In my opinion, that is not a 3N swivel. Wrong design/shape/features.

Thank you wissmiss. I was hoping the swivel would be something someone could use to complete an antique. Oh well.

I'm not really a collector but I end up with some pretty old stuff once in awhile and I'm impressed at how a tool that is over 100 years old can be in such good condition and so well made in the first place. The springs on that #4 rival those on my newest and least used Victor 4s. I don't think I'll use it though because that pan post(or whatever it's called) is certainly a weak link. A coyote would have it removed in no time. I guess I could weld it but I think this one should stay as it is. And the jaw tips that were cast with a bubble like we have to add to our modern traps if we want that feature. Just a nice example of old school quality.

My take 10Bands...I used traps like these years ago....good quality jaws but base and cross piece are thin/weak...chain would work for a while for coyote s..more of a beaver trap in my mind.

That is the correct chain for your #4. They fist started cutting the V in the pan in 1910 but there were several other Victor pans with patent dates (1902 & 1907) between your trap and the V pans.