what makes the best hive tool the best?

[NasalSponge]

The KW from Kelly is also my favorite.

[bevy's honeybees]

I'm curious about this one and will order one next time I put in an order from Mann Lake, as they now sell this. If it's as slick as the video shows, it would make a nice gift.

ez-pry.com

[johng]

This is my favorite. It is a little bit longer than the standard tool and it weights just a little bit more. A very well made tool.
https://kelleybees.com/Products/Deta...34333033323339

[JonnyBeeGood]

Kris,
I agree with Indy as to whatever your doing at the moment indentifies what is the most important tool. Wish you the best.
You sound like me last winter. I made my own tools also and I'm glad I did. I made my 'Maxant' tool from A-2 tool steel, hardened to 50-60rc, ground the blades, broke the edges and then flash chromed it. I painted the top half with some red enamel paint which really stands out nicely. (def. makes it easier to spot in the grass) I made the tip of the hook end smaller so that I have no issues getting between & under the frames. In my opinion there is no need to temper as the wood or plastic will give way before the tool will.
Besides this tool, having a standard hive tool that is thin enough to easily get between the boxes is necessary. This one I would harden and then temper as I use this for more heavy prying.
Enjoy!!!

[valleyman]

I have several hive tools. I don't know where any are except the KW tool from Kelleys. If I lose it I will replace it quickly. In case no one knows it was developed by Kent Williams here in Ky. Thus KW tool. It was exclusive to Kelleys for a while. It is by far the best I've used.