Hive Tool

A hive tool is an invaluable tool, and there is no substitute! They are kind of a combination scraper/screwdriver, but thinner than a screwdriver, and not as broad as a scraper. They are usually around $4 each, and built perfectly for separating and lifting frames as you work your hive, scraping propolis, or removing errant pieces of comb. Do not be tempted to just use a screwdriver...they are too thick. They will work just fine until you break part of a frame with one, and then suddenly you see the knowledge of using the proper tool for beekeeping. Bring your hive tool with you whenever you work the bees.

My husband came up with an ingenious way to keep his hive tool handy on his bee suit, without trying to fumble getting it in or out of a pocket. That can be a challenge while wearing a beesuit with veil and gloves. What he did was get a strong magnet and slipped it in his pocket. Then all he has to do is touch the hive tool to the magnet outside the cloth. Very handy!