Did I fail to mention that I was after a two to three foot gator?
If I recall, it would take a bit to render the critter lifeless. Pulling on the garotte, and dodging the flailing tail, and the twisting gator was often exciting. It could take up to 15 min before he was finished. If the spike was well placed, that is, pushing into the spinal column, it was quicker. If longer than that, then the coup de grace would be delivered with a .22 Ruger. The whole purpose of doing this was to be silent, and not draw the attention of one of the park rangers.
mmmmmmm Gator Tail on the grill, or chunked, breaded and deep fried.