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Need hive tool input plz.

9K views 31 replies 28 participants last post by  KQ6AR 
#1 ·
I'm looking to purchase a few hive tools and would appreciate any input.
I would like to purchase ones that are made in the USA, but are open to any replies.

What is your favorite "go to" hive tool and why?
 
#6 ·
Mr Beeman...Get one that has a germination rate of at least 80%. I plant about a half dozen each year. Seemes mine never come up.

A bright color is nice when you lay it down around the hive and start looking for it. Look them over, some are so thin that they will bend, some are so thick they are hard to get between the boxes.

If you have a bee friend, try his/hers, before you buy. Get the one that you like. Hive tools are something that needs to suit you, and the way you use it.

cchoganjr
 
#9 ·
My favorites are the Italian hive tool. It's long, thin, light, has a hook that fits between the frames. I have at least a dozen of them... I got rid of the rest. Use to be available from Brushy Mt. They don't seem to have them anymore but I saw them somewhere else... don't remember where as I have a good supply...
 
#11 ·
I bought a small pry bar at the local hardware emporium and then sharpened both ends on a bench grinder. Strong and virtually indestructible, fits nicely in my hand and in my pocket, not painted so no paint to chip off. Also recommend a multi-tool or (real) swiss army knife.
 
#17 ·
The basic hive tool is good , the old Jimmy bar. Sometimes a hard ware will have one but every one thinks you are going to pry open doors. Now I did cut the return of mine to 3.8 of an inch so I could go down between the frames and start lifting it up. Some times my fingers want work so well so it helps.

Hmm made in the USA good luck.
 
#18 · (Edited)
I keep 2. I agree with Michael on the Italian hive tool. I keep several. Biggest issue with it is this size it can slip between the frames and fall all the way to the bottom of the hive. I am missing one and I am sure it is in the bottom of a hive some place. Keep meaning to tie a string to it but just never seem to get to it. I also keep a regular hive tool and like the bright yellow one from Blue Sky. I believe they carry both types.
 
#26 ·
So I use 2 hive tools when inspecting. One of each in each hand. Only have 30-60 seconds to go through the hive most times. Smoker held by the knee's. So I use the one with the cage around it for safety. Now if you are not in the child bearing years you can use what ever, unless you are taking Viagra use the caged one also.
 
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