F. REUTHE’S PATENT TRAP GUN.

F. REUTHE’S PATENT TRAP GUN. SN 376. Rare cast iron percussion trap gun, dbl oct bbls with integral frame which has two large 3-point prongs protruding from front with trigger & striker mechanism on bottom. Top of bbls and housing have maker’s name, address & patent date. This device was used by trappers & predator control agents to eliminate predators and harvest fur in days gone by. Trapper would bait the two prongs with gobs of meat, attach the device to a tree, log or stump in the area where predators had been observed, then load it with a black powder charge & ball, cock it and leave it for the predator to find. A simple tug on the baited prongs would cause the unit to fire, instantly killing whatever animal may have been unfortunate enough to wander by. These devices were outlawed for use in the late 19th or early 20th century. PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Bbls & body of device retain 30-40% orig black paint. Prongs are intact with some light to moderate pitting. Mechanics are fine. 4-33925 JR64 (2,000-3,500)

Auction: Firearms - Spring 2008

Please Note: All prices include the hammer price plus the buyer’s premium, which is paid by the buyer as part of the purchase price. The prices noted here after the auction are considered unofficial and do not become official until after the 46th day.

Image	Lot	Price	Description
	349	$1,150.00	F. REUTHE’S PATENT TRAP GUN. SN 376. Rare cast iron percussion trap gun, dbl oct bbls with integral frame which has two large 3-point prongs protruding from front with trigger & striker mechanism on bottom. Top of bbls and housing have maker’s name, address & patent date. This device was used by trappers & predator control agents to eliminate predators and harvest fur in days gone by. Trapper would bait the two prongs with gobs of meat, attach the device to a tree, log or stump in the area where predators had been observed, then load it with a black powder charge & ball, cock it and leave it for the predator to find. A simple tug on the baited prongs would cause the unit to fire, instantly killing whatever animal may have been unfortunate enough to wander by. These devices were outlawed for use in the late 19th or early 20th century. PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Bbls & body of device retain 30-40% orig black paint. Prongs are intact with some light to moderate pitting. Mechanics are fine. 4-33925 JR64 (2,000-3,500) Auction: Firearms - Spring 2008 Please Note: All prices include the hammer price plus the buyer’s premium, which is paid by the buyer as part of the purchase price. The prices noted here after the auction are considered unofficial and do not become official until after the 46th day.

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