Abstract: A trap for exterminating moles has a support adapted for placement on the ground to support the trap in an upright position generally above the ground. An impingement device is operatively connected to the support for motion relative to the support for capturing the mole. A barrel mounted on the support in a generally vertical position is adapted for slidably receiving a portion of the impingement device in a retracted position. An explosion chamber receives an explosive force and directs the explosive force generally downward against the portion of the impingement device received in the barrel to drive the impingement device rapidly downward to an extended position. A trigger mechanism triggers an explosion producing the explosive force.