Learn How to Make a Figure 4 Deadfall Trap and a Pitfall Trap With this Wallet Tip Card.

The Trapping Tip Card on How to Make a Figure 4 Trap and Pitfall Trap is a waterproof, credit-card-sized guide designed to help you quickly set up two effective survival traps. On one side, the card provides step-by-step instructions for building a figure 4 trap, a simple but reliable deadfall trap that uses three notched sticks and a heavy object to catch small game. The reverse side explains how to construct a pitfall trap, detailing how to dig a concealed hole and line it with stakes or bait to capture animals or even insects. Made from durable, paper-thin plastic, this tip card is perfect for any survival kit, offering quick, accessible information for trapping small animals in the wild.

Figure 4 Trap: Best Practices for Setting Up a Figure 4 Deadfall

The figure 4 trap is a classic and reliable survival trap designed to catch small game by using a heavy object, like a rock or log, to fall and trap the animal. Also known as a figure 4 deadfall, it is a simple yet effective tool for wilderness survival. In this walkthrough, we’ll go over the best practices for how to make a figure 4 trap, set it properly, and increase your chances of catching small animals in the wild.

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Materials

To create your figure 4 deadfall, you’ll need to collect the following materials:

• Three straight sticks: The sticks should be sturdy and carved to fit together. You will need one about 6-8 inches (vertical post), one 8-10 inches (diagonal trigger), and another 10-12 inches (bait stick).
• Knife or sharp tool: This will help carve notches in the sticks for the trap mechanism.
• Heavy object: A large flat rock, log, or other weight to serve as the deadfall.
• Bait: Use food that attracts small animals like squirrels or rabbits, such as nuts, seeds, or berries.

Step 2: Carve the Trap Components

Each of the three sticks in the figure 4 trap has a specific role, so it’s important to carve them correctly:

1. Vertical post: This is the stick that stands upright to hold the weight. Carve a flat notch at the top where it will interlock with the diagonal trigger stick.

2. Diagonal trigger stick: One end of this stick will be notched to fit into the vertical post, while the other end will support the bait stick. Carve a small notch at each end of the stick.

3. Bait stick: This is the longest stick, used to hold the bait and stabilize the trap. Carve a notch at the top to connect with the diagonal trigger stick.

Step 3: How to Make a Figure 4 Trap

1. Set up the vertical post: Start by placing the vertical post on the ground beneath your chosen heavy object (the deadfall). This post will support the entire structure.

2. Attach the diagonal trigger stick: Insert the notched end of the diagonal trigger stick into the notch on the vertical post. It should be placed at roughly a 45-degree angle. The other end of the diagonal stick will rest against the bait stick.

3. Position the bait stick: Hook the notched end of the bait stick onto the diagonal trigger stick. The bait stick should hold the trap together while balancing the weight above it. Place bait on the outer end of the bait stick.

Step 4: Set the Heavy Object (Deadfall)

Carefully position the heavy object (rock or log) over the trap. The weight should balance on the vertical post and diagonal trigger stick but should be delicate enough to fall when the trap is triggered. Ensure the deadfall is stable but ready to drop with the slightest disturbance.

Step 5: Bait and Place the Trap

Bait the end of the bait stick with food that attracts small game. Set the trap in areas frequented by animals, such as near trails, water sources, or places where you see tracks or droppings. Make sure the figure 4 deadfall is clear of obstacles that might interfere with the trigger mechanism.

Step 6: Test the Trap

Before relying on the trap, test it a few times by gently touching the bait stick to see if the trap activates correctly. It should release the deadfall when the bait stick is disturbed.

Step 7: Monitor the Trap

Check the trap regularly to see if it has caught anything. In a survival situation, you don’t want to leave a successful figure 4 trap unchecked for too long, as other animals might steal your catch.

Best Practices for Using a Figure 4 Trap

• Sharpen notches carefully: Clean, precise notches are key to ensuring the figure 4 trap holds together yet triggers easily.
• Use appropriate bait: Match the bait to the type of game you want to catch. For small game like squirrels, use nuts, seeds, or berries.
• Location is important: Place the trap where animals frequently roam. Look for signs like tracks or animal trails.
• Set multiple traps: Increase your chances by setting up multiple figure 4 deadfall traps in different locations.
• Patience is required: Trapping requires time, so leave the trap undisturbed for a while and check it frequently for results.

Using a Pitfall Trap

The pitfall trap is one of the oldest and simplest trapping methods, used for capturing small to medium-sized animals by causing them to fall into a hidden pit from which they cannot escape. It is particularly useful in survival situations where food gathering is essential. In this walkthrough, we’ll go over the best practices for constructing, setting, and using a pitfall trap effectively.

Step 1: Choose the Right Location

A good location is key to a successful pitfall trap. Look for areas where animals frequently travel, such as:

• Animal trails: Look for signs of animal activity like tracks, droppings, or paths.
• Water sources: Animals often come to water, so near a stream, pond, or river can be a prime location.
• Feeding grounds: Areas with an abundance of food sources, like fruit trees or dense vegetation, increase your chances.

Step 2: Dig the Pit

Once you've selected a location, it's time to dig the pit. The size and depth of the pit will depend on the size of the animal you're trying to trap.

• For small game (like rabbits or squirrels): A pit about 1 to 2 feet deep and 1 foot wide should be sufficient.
• For medium game (like larger rodents or raccoons): Aim for a deeper pit, around 3 to 4 feet deep and 2 feet wide.
• For larger game: You may need an even deeper pit, but this can be time-consuming in a survival situation.

Tips for digging the pit:

• Shape: Ensure the walls of the pit are straight and smooth so animals cannot climb out easily.
• Slope: Avoid sloping sides, as animals can potentially scramble out if the walls are angled.

Step 3: Conceal the Trap

The effectiveness of a pitfall trap depends on how well it’s concealed. If animals detect the trap, they will avoid it. It's important at this point to express how critical it is to mark the traps location so you, or another person does not accidentally fall into your pitfall trap, this is a critical step, as these traps can be incredibly dangerous for people, and pets. Follow these best practices to properly hide the pit:

• Cover: Use natural materials like thin branches, leaves, grass, or dirt to lightly cover the pit. The goal is to disguise it without making the cover too thick, which could support the animal's weight.
• Camouflage: Match the cover to the surrounding environment. If you’re in a wooded area, use dry leaves and twigs; in a grassy area, use grass or bushes.
• Stakes or Spikes (optional): For more effective trapping, especially for larger animals, you can sharpen stakes and place them at the bottom of the pit. This helps ensure the animal cannot escape once it falls in. However, this step should be done with caution to avoid injury as this trap is very deadly when you add this feature and people have been caught accidentally in pitfall traps, use with caution.

Step 4: Bait the Trap

Baiting the pitfall trap is an optional step but can significantly increase your chances of success. Choose bait based on the type of animal you are trying to catch:

• For small game: Use nuts, seeds, fruits, or small pieces of food.
• For medium or larger game: Use larger food scraps, meat, or fish.

Place the bait in the middle of the cover or at the bottom of the pit if it’s accessible. This will lure the animal into stepping onto the trap.

Step 5: Monitor the Trap

Check your pitfall trap regularly, especially in survival situations. Leaving a successful trap unattended for too long could lead to losing the animal to predators, or the trapped animal might escape.

• Check daily: Ideally, monitor your traps at least once a day.
• Keep multiple traps: To increase your chances of catching game, set up multiple pitfall traps in different areas, particularly along frequently used animal trails.
• Mark All Traps Clearly: Be sure to make each trap noticeable to yourself, and other people so there are not accidents

Step 6: Handle the Captured Animal

Once the trap is successful, approach carefully to ensure the animal is fully trapped and unable to escape. You’ll need to remove or dispatch the animal humanely and quickly, especially in survival situations where the animal will be used for food.

Best Practices for Using a Pitfall Trap:

• Location is key: Always place your trap where animals are likely to travel. Near food sources and water are prime spots.
• Pit size matters: Ensure the pit is deep enough and wide enough for the intended game. The animal should not be able to jump or climb out.
• Disguise carefully: Animals are smart and will avoid obvious traps. Make the cover look natural and use materials from the surrounding environment.
• Use stakes wisely: If you choose to add stakes, sharpen them well and place them securely at the bottom of the trap. This helps immobilize larger animals, but ensure it's done safely.
• Bait strategically: Bait isn't always necessary, but it can improve the trap's effectiveness, especially when food is scarce.
• Check frequently: To prevent losing your catch or allowing the animal to escape, check your pitfall trap regularly.
• Mark Clearly: Mark your trap clearly to avoid accidents
• Fill When Finished: When the trap is no longer in use, fill it back in, and return the area to normal.

DIY Survival Tip Cards for Every Situation 

Dozens of other tip cards from Grim Workshop exist, each with some of the best survival tips ever on their own unique subject and focus, all containing valuable information, perfect for the avid learner, bushcraft, or hunting enthusiast, or as an emergency information kit in a mini survival kit, get home bag, or bug out bag.

About Grim Workshop

Grim Workshop has been crafting innovative everyday carry (EDC) and survival tools for nearly a decade, with a mission to equip people with practical, durable tools that prepare them for any situation. Our products are designed to be lightweight, compact, and rugged, ensuring they fit seamlessly into your daily routine or emergency kit without taking up valuable space. Proudly made in the USA from premium materials like surgical-grade stainless steel, our tools are reusable and built to last. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, survivalist, or simply like to be prepared, Grim Workshop provides gear that you can count on when it matters most.

FAQ for the Trap Tip Card

Q: What traps are covered by the tip card?
A: The tip card provides step-by-step instructions on how to make both a figure 4 trap and a pitfall trap, two essential and simple survival traps for catching small game.

Q: What is the size and material of the tip card?
A: The card is credit-card-sized and made from durable, waterproof plastic, making it easy to carry in your wallet or survival kit.

Q: Is the card waterproof?
A: Yes, the tip card is completely waterproof, making it perfect for outdoor use and harsh weather conditions.

Q: Are the instructions suitable for beginners?
A: Absolutely! The instructions are simple and clear, making the card ideal for both beginners and experienced survivalists.

Q: How does the figure 4 trap work?
A: The figure 4 trap is a type of deadfall trap that uses three interlocking sticks to hold a heavy object in place, which falls when triggered by an animal trying to take the bait.

Q: What type of animals can I catch with these traps?
A: These traps are designed for small game like rabbits, squirrels, or other similarly sized animals, the pitfall trap can easily be expanded to take large game and historically has even taken animals the size of bears.

Q: Do I need tools to set up these traps?
A: While you can use natural materials, a small knife or sharp tool can be helpful to notch the sticks used in the figure 4 trap. The pitfall trap requires only a digging tool or your hands.