MB888 say it true - Tristan, you really do know your rattlers.

I think I might try Marlins advice and check out the Two Butts (er, Buttes) SWA.

Thanks for all of the advice guys. I was thinking of using something to capture the snake (broom handle/rope and perhaps a long pole with a bent end to hold it until I can get the broom handle/rope around it's head). I was also planning on cutting the head off (watching for potential bites - even after the head comes off), and skinning and gutting it on the spot. I'm not too fond of the idea of carrying a live rattler around - even (or especially) in a pillow case - mostly because of the getting it out of the pillow case part.

Tristan - I too was bit by a Brown Recluse, but snce I was just a young toddler, I dont remember it. My mom says I whined about the pain and it ate a hole through my abdomin (still have the scar ~ barely). I don't envy you your experiences - yikes!