ANIMAL-TRAP
Two jaws ensure capture regardless of the mouse's direction of approach.
Two U-shaped wire jaws are pivoted at opposite ends of a base plate, one linked to the other by loops so both swing in unison. A crank on the lower jaw member is held by a pivoted bait-holding trigger plate, keeping both jaws open. When the mouse depresses the trigger, the crank is released and a retracting spring snaps both jaws downward. The mouse is pinned between one jaw or the other and the base, depending on which side it approached from. An ear on the trigger may be bent up or down to adjust sensitivity.
“The invention has for its primary object the production of an improved animal trap of the spring-jaw type, embodying certain novel features of construction and arrangements of parts whereby the animals are sure to be caught regardless of which way they enter the trap.”— Myron A. Twitchell, from the specification
And the world did not beat a path to his door.