Q: I would like to buy some trapping supplies but can't find a retailer in my area.
A: Trapping supplies are available in Sporting Goods, Hardware, Farm & Home and Trapping Supply stores in many places around the country. In addition, many of those retailers offer trapping supplies through their catalogs and websites. If your favorite store does not stock traps, ask them to contact us for dealer pricing. Our company also has a retail program whereby you can buy direct from us if you choose.
Q: What is Duke's history and how long has Duke been in the trap business?
A: Our company was originally established in 1938 as a local Pecan and Fur Skin merchant business which we still operate to this day. The company is in its third generation of family ownership led by T.A. Duke and Bill Duke. We began producing our line of traps during 1986 as a complementary business to our Fur Skin business and have expanded our product line over many years.
Q: Is it true that these traps are illegal in the United States?
A: No. Within the United States, most wildlife laws are governed by state wildlife agencies and most states encourage responsible trapping to keep wild animal populations in check. The following states have laws that restrict the use of certain traps: New Jersey, Massachusetts, Florida, California, & Washington. Other states generally encourage trapping and their laws provide guidance on where traps may be used and the trap sizes permitted. If you have further questions on trap use in your respective state, please contact your state wildlife agency to request a complete set of Trapping Rules & Regulations.
Q: Are Duke Traps certified for use in Canada, Russia & the EU under the Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standards (AIHTS)?
A: We are pleased to report that our DP Coon Trap, #3 CS Rubber Jaw, #120 BT, #160 BT, #220 BT, #280 BT and #330 BT Body Traps have been tested and certified for certain species in Canada, Russia & the European Union. We are continuing to make good progress with the Canadian testing authorities and will submit new items for testing regularly. The AIHTS regulatory agreement is only between Canada, Russia & the EU and does not affect trapping in the United States or other countries.
Q: I have noticed that Duke Traps are priced a lot less than other brands of traps. Why is that the case?
A: Over many years we have built our business on volume and not on high profit margins. Our metal stamping and assembly lines utilize automation and the most efficient Just-In-Time (JIT) production methods, which results in lower production costs and lower prices for you. We understand that for you to carry on the tradition of trapping, you need the most economical and dependable equipment available.
Q: Why should I buy Duke Traps over other brands of traps?
A: Every model of Duke Traps is tested extensively by trappers and every trap is guaranteed to perform to your expectations. Independent testing has concluded that Duke Traps are equally effective when compared to other brands of traps and with selling prices often 30% lower than other brands, Duke offers an exceptional value.
Q: Why would someone choose to use a Body Trap?
A: Body Traps offer the user a very efficient method for quick capture and dispatch of wild animals. In outdoor settings near creeks, rivers or ponds, Body Traps are placed in travel runs for targeting muskrat, mink, otter and beaver. As Body Traps result in a lethal capture, responsible trappers should only place body traps in settings where domesticated animals are not present.
Q: What criteria should I use to choose the correct size of trap?
A: Consider the setting you are planning to trap and the animal you are targeting. In water trapping, often a Body Trap will be your best solution. Trapping land animals is normally accomplished with a foot-hold trap. We recommend that you match the target animal with the trap size listed on this website. Best results occur when a trapper matches the correct trap size suitable for a target animal.
Q: Before I start trapping, do I need to enroll in a Trapper Education Course?
A: Many states require beginner trappers to enroll in a Trapper Education Course before being licenced to trap. We strongly encourage this form of education for anyone who is planning to trap because this course provides many important concepts on responsible trapping techniques and animal behavior patterns.
