I recently discovered the Kness wind-up mouse trap while researching a different style of trap to effectively trap mice alive. Turns out I am a little bit behind the time, as this mouse trap has been catching mice since the mid 1920s. In my opinion, any trap that has been around for that long and continues to be a top seller certainly has to work and work well.
At one point, this trap was actually called “the world’s best mouse trap”. I am not going to go that far, however, if there is a mouse trap hall of fame somewhere, this trap would certainly need to have a mention in it – add in the fact that the design has been replicated by competitors numerous times – and you should be confident that you have a winning design.
What Is a Kness Wind-up Mouse Trap and How Does It Work?
So, what is the Kness wind-up mouse trap? Well, simply put, it is a mouse trap that uses the mouse’s natural sense of curiosity in order to enter a limited sized passageway located on either side of the trap. Once inside, the mouse’s bodyweight will trigger a mechanism that will act as a one way revolving door, nudging the mouse into a separate portion of the trap that is inescapable.
The trap is designed to hold a number of mice safely until released elsewhere, and it will continue to operate (catching more mice) until the wind-up portion of the trap needs to be rewound. At that point, simply empty the trapped mice elsewhere, and repeat the process.
Below is a quick video of how the Kness wind-up mouse trap works:
Longevity of the Kness Mouse Trap
The Kness wind-up mouse trap is built for longevity. Because of the exterior of the mouse trap – constructed of enduring galvanized steel – it will last for many years. Between trappings, simply wipe down the holding compartment, wind it up and set it for another trapping phase. The trap is so endurable it can be used in varying environments – both inside and outside your home or shop. However, because of the metal design it is also important to check the trap regularly, as the mice within the trap may be too warm in hot weather and too cold in the winter months.
Baiting the Catch and Release Trap
The manufacturer of the wind-up trap maintains that baiting the trap is not required. They suggest that the trapped mice will attract others toward the trap and that these curious mice will also fall victim to the trap. Still baiting the trap with some peanut butter or another form of bait, will not hurt and is actually recommended by many.
To bait the trap, simply smear some bait, such as peanut butter, within the holding chamber of the product. The scent of the peanut butter is strong enough to attract mice. It is not recommended to place bait within the entry ways of the trap, as this may interfere with the swinging mechanism of the trap.
Clear Lid Option
The trap does come with a clear lid option. This is recommended so that you can see if any mice are trapped inside when checking on your trap. If you prefer the solid metal lid instead, you can still monitor the trap without opening it by shining a flashlight into the vents of the holding chamber.
The Kness Mouse Trap
No, despite the longevity of this trap’s design, you do not need to visit various antique shops to find this product in order to purchase it. The Kness wind-up mouse trap can be purchased online. Links below to Amazon.com.
| Kness 101-0-002 Ketch-All Mousetrap – By: Kness | Ketch-All Mousetrap w/ Clear Lid – By: Kness |
| Ketch-All Mousetrap w/ Drowning Attachment – By: Kness |
Other Versions of the Product
If you are not keen on the Kness version of the wind-up mouse trap, there are other manufacturers that offer a similar product with wind-up action, a similar trigger mechanism and an inescapable jail like holding cell. Below are a couple of options from different manufacturers. Links to Amazon.com.
| Janico’s 9201 Wind Up Mouse Trap w/ Clear Cover – By: Janico | J T Eaton 425H Trap Multiple Catch Mouse – By: J T Eaton |
| Wind-Up Repeating Mouse Trap – By: FarmTek |
Conclusion
Many swear by this style of mouse trap and for good reason. As I mentioned above, if there was a hall of fame for mouse traps, this particular style should probably be mentioned in it. That statement made me do a quick internet search looking to see if there is actually a mouse trap hall of fame in existence. I could not find one, however, I did find numerous museums that do have at least a section of the museum dedicate to mouse traps. I decided to list them below. I do not know if the Kness wind-up mouse trap is in any of them. I think it should be, however, given the age of the product’s design and success that it has endured throughout the years.
The Trap Museum, Galloway, Ohio, USA
The Mouse Trap Museum, Neroth, Vulkaneifel, Germany
Museum of English Rural Life (MERL)
St. Fagans National History Museum
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