Quick Answer
Paiute deadfall is variation using hook trigger. Two sticks create right angle. One stick balances on angle with weight on end. Other stick hooks into trigger — when animal touches bait, hook disengages, weight falls. Simpler carving than figure-4. Effective for small-medium game. Assembly: create 90-degree angle with horizontal stick, position vertical stick as trigger hook, balance weight on horizontal stick. Practice assembly before using. Multiple traps increase success probability.
Paiute Deadfall Overview
Advantages Over Figure-4
Simpler carving required. Hook mechanism more intuitive. Easier to get balance right. Faster to construct.
Basic Mechanics
Two-stick assembly creates right angle. Weight positioned on horizontal stick. Trigger hook disengages when animal disturbs bait.
Stick Selection
Material Requirements
Suitable straight sticks, flat stone or heavy log as weight, bait material.
Size Considerations
Horizontal stick: 2-3 feet long, 1+ inch diameter Trigger stick: 12-18 inches, carved hook end Weight: Heavy enough to kill quickly (5-20+ pounds depending on game)
Assembly Steps
1. Create Right Angle
Position horizontal stick across vertical support creating 90-degree angle.
2. Hook Carving
Carve hook in trigger stick end. Hook engages notch carved in horizontal stick.
3. Balance Point
Position balance point under horizontal stick so weight-loaded end is heavier (creates tension).
4. Bait Placement
Attach bait to trigger stick end opposite hook.
5. Weight Positioning
Place weight on horizontal stick beyond balance point. When trigger releases, weight falls.
Trigger Mechanism
Hook Shape
Smooth curved hook engages notch without snagging. Trigger sensitivity depends on hook-notch fit.
Release Point
Bait stick contact triggers disengagement. Sensitivity adjustment through carving precision.
Weight Selection
Heavier weight = faster kill. Too heavy = overkill. Too light = animal escapes.
Bait Options
Seeds, nuts, meat scraps, vegetation. Match to target game species.
Placement
Position on game trails, near dens, burrow entrances. Multiple traps = higher success.
Advantages
- Simpler carving than figure-4
- Faster construction
- Reliable trigger
- Effective for small-medium game
Limitations
- Still requires carving skill
- Sensitive balance required
- Limited to small-medium game
- Multiple traps needed for reliable food source
Practice Strategy
Practice assembly repeatedly. Build several versions. Test balance carefully before setting trap.
Conclusion
Paiute deadfall is effective traditional trap. Simpler than figure-4. Practice before depending on it for food procurement.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.