I picked up a Gibbs #4 coil spring off eBay for fairly cheap, with the intent of using it. The springs are strong and it’s in great shape. After getting it in and looking at it and reading the pan and some history, it seems it might be collectible. I’m not a trap collector by any means, I just like buying older traps because I’m more partial to them and can get them cheaper typically. Would y’all personally run the trap, or maybe put it up as a “show piece”. ?.
I’d just keep it. I haven’t looked it up but it might be 75-100 years old. I have some old Gibbs Stoploss ( Two Triggers) hanging in my house. That being said, I have a couple dozen Diamond Double Jaw #1’s that weren’t near collectible I use sometimes for mink and rats. They were made in the twenties or thirties I believe. So, whatever you decide to do with it enjoy it.
I’m partial to the older ones too….I am a “sort of” collector so if it were mine, I’d just keep it as a collectible. I only collect the lower end cheap stuff because I can’t afford Newhouse bear traps. I got a bunch I need to clean up and post on here. Post pictures of your Gibbs, I’d like to see it. Love the history
Nice pick-up! Andreski and Parr’s 2022 Trap Collectors Guide says that trap was produced in the 20’s and in excellent condition worth about $25. I’d keep it and look at it as a collector.
I appreciate it!. That’s what I was thinking too, I’d hate to lose it