dog proof traps

[.17HMR]

Has anyone used the grizz getters or duffers dog proof traps?
Are they worth the cash?
Can you catch skunks or grinners?

[Mallard]

I have an isolated situation where I employ the Griz's, actualy I borrow them from a trapping buddy. While they did catch coons, and did a fine job, I simply don't see the advantage over a nice coil. There are a ton of domestics in this particular area (Summer coon work at a vineyard surrounded by homes) and using these traps seemed to make sense. Anyway....in a nut shell they are nice, but IMHO a bit pricy for my fur line application.

[Bogmaster]

I have never used the Griz or Duffers.I have used and sold the Coon Cuffs since they came out.They do allow you to set areas where a foothold or body gripper is not the best trap of choice.And they do catch coon.
 All the dog resistant traps,have their place .
 Tom

[Paul Ellsworth]

I agree with Tom.

I trap coons all year long but the dog proff traps are a line of last resort for me not so much because they are so expensive (They are expensive in my opinion) but because of the time it takes to deal with them. I can usually get a coon in a cage with little problem and in a lot less time. If this does not work (my compition is busy releasing coons caught in a cage) I use a coni up off the ground over the hole in the attic for instance, but have to get permissions to do so. The coni's and permission are still easier. If that fails I break out the dog proof traps and catch the booger at the edge of the yard.

Now that I have been using cable restraint and snares more often this may be a viable step in their in the future as well, but, I am experimenting with catching coons in a 120 as well.

[jim-NE]

I think I've commented on these before. Each has some design issues that have to be considered, too.
For example, Duffer's model has a trigger that must be "pulled" so if the trap is bedded into, say, a soft creek bank the trigger is pulled back out toward the hole by the coon in order for the trap to fire. Its something to consider, anyway. You really have to get that trap solid into the bank so that the whole unit isn't worked free by a coon while they are working the set. These models aren't hard to set, either, but do have a separate pin and cotter pin arrangement...so don't lose any pieces while you are setting them in the field.
Coon cuffs have a trigger that is pushed away from the opening, make them a nice choice for bedded situations. You can also use a bigger hole behind the trap with bait, lure, etc. and the trap covers up the opening. These traps also fit nicely into the end opening of a 4" or so short section of PVC pipe, which you can plant into the creek near a trail.
Both traps work well on drowners, and both are very pricey compared to comparible sized footholds.
I've caught many possums in the duffers model, and only one in a coon cuffs, model, but none were target species catches for me. I'd say yes they should work well for possums for you. I used smoked salmon and fish oil for bait on all those possum catches.
Never tried the griz models....
I use the dog proofs in couple of areas where I am limited to no footholds (dogs, cats, etc.) and probably could have caught way many more coons with footholds but again the owner limited me to these traps. I've caught a number of large coons in them, so wouldn't hesitate on holding power of either model.
The rubber hose spacers on the older coon cuffs models did break down with age and when dipped for me. The Duffers models need to be cleaned out immediate after season or they will rust inside where most of the critical parts are, too.
Just my two cents on them anyway...
jim-NE