Inside the old 72 frame extractor. With harvest and extraction finished for another year, it’s time to clean out the equipment and turn to winter projects in the shop.
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All photos: Adam Foster Collins
Old or damaged combs are removed and frames are soaked in hot water to soften wax and propolis.
Frames are scraped clean and stocked with new foundation for the coming season.
Mike still uses and his old Fairbanks platform scale for weighing honey in the shop.
Mike making calculations on equipment made versus equipment needed for next season.
Mike just finished making some old style 7 wire queen excluders. He enjoys the challenge of replicating historic gear which has worn out over the years.
The ever watchful, Wilson in the driveway. All bark; no bite.
Set up to put foundation in comb honey frames. Mike uses melted wax to attach the foundation, and cuts it short so that it does not touch the bottom bars. He says it’s the key to keeping the comb straight.
New assembled frames, placed in boxes and stacked on pallets. When the season comes, it’s better to be looking at gear than looking for gear.
Scraping mating nuc bottom boards. Clearing away old propolis for a better fit for the coming year. Before and after. Now’s the time to fix things needing repair.
Mike’s jig for putting in comb foundation.
Mike at his trusty old Rockwell table saw. A common sight through the winter at the shop.
Mike likes to use pink boxes for comb honey. Easier to keep track of in the yards.