TRAP SETTER
A second device, carried separately, for setting the first device.
The trapper places the inner U-shaped lever on the ground and rests the trap's base on its outwardly turned ends. He swings the outer, wider U-shaped lever downward; its angled offsets press the ends of the trap spring down, relieving the jaws of tension. Holding the outer lever with one hand, he reaches under the jaws with the other, spreads them, and engages the latch with the trigger. He then swings the lever back and slides the setter out from under the armed trap.
“This practice requires that the trap be placed upon a hard or unyielding surface and there is always danger of the trap being accidentally sprung while being carried to the place where it is to operate, many serious accidents being due to this cause. My invention provides a simple device whereby the trap may be easily set anywhere and without danger to the trapper.”— Lloyd Hoover, from the specification
And the world did not beat a path to his door.