From the Factory

• Once manufactured, bear traps are coated with a layer of cosmoline, a type of grease used to prevent rust from forming on raw steel and iron. This insures the traps don't develop any rust before they are purchased.
  
  

Change the Grease

• The grease a manufacturer uses has an odor bears can easily detect, which could help them avoid being trapped. Bear trappers remove the cosmoline grease, then lubricate the traps with a scent-free, paraffin-based coating.
  
  

Closing Speed

• Traps are machines and a well lubricated machine works best. Besides adding a measure of rust protection, a well lubricated trap works smoother and the jaws of the trap will close more rapidly, increasing the chance of the bear's paw being held securely.