Author: Dr. Andreas Kokott (About the Author)
The hive tool is used constantly when working with beehives. There are different types of hive tools with various additional functions. But which functions do you really need, and what are the different parts of the hive tool used for?
I use a very simple hive tool (photo) and have marked the individual functional areas.
- No. 1: Scraping edge
- No. 2: Lever edge
- No. 3: Frame hook
- No. 4: Hanging hole – for hanging the hive tool on a nail or hook
Let’s take a look at the different functions, numbers 1 to 3.
No. 1: Scraping edge
The scraping edge should be sharp. It is inserted into the gaps between the different hive components, such as the hive boxes, queen excluder and lid.
Bees like to seal the gaps between hive components with propolis, which can make them difficult to separate without a hive tool. The scraping edge is inserted into the gap and then used as a lever to carefully separate the wooden parts.
The scraping edge is also used for cleaning surfaces. It can be used to remove wax and propolis residues from the surfaces of hive components.
No. 2: Lever edge
The lever edge is used to separate frames from each other. To do this, insert the lever edge between two frames and carefully push the hive tool sideways. This is done on both sides of the frame.
No. 3: Frame hook
If there is not enough space to move the loosened frame sideways, or if you want to remove a frame from the middle of the hive, the frame hook is used.
The hook allows you to grip the frame and lift it out without having to move the neighbouring frames.
In my hive, the frames do not rest on simple rails where they can be moved sideways. Instead, they sit in a frame holder. This means that the frames cannot fall out when the hive box is placed upright.
The disadvantage is that the frames are difficult to loosen and remove without a frame hook. With this type of hive, the frame hook is therefore particularly useful.
Cleaning
After working with the hive tool, I clean it. This can usually be done with hot water. Occasionally, stubborn residues have to be scrubbed off with steel wool.
If the hive tool is only slightly dirty, I simply put it in the dishwasher.
