Honey bee strains...for Top-bar hives?!?

[SamG347]

I have been thinking about getting bees for almost a year now. I have finally decided that I'm going to build a Topbar hive or two. My question is what do you all find as a  good strain of bee for a Top-bar hive...also in a NE climate. I was thinking Italians.....as they seem to be common and a good overall bee. I want a gentle bee....a good honey producer....and winter well. I have heard Carniolan are good bees but tend to swarm more.
Any input is appreciated!
Thanks all!
 

[suprstakr]

Best bet get a swarm , they are easy to hive and start gang buster !

[qa33010]

     Definitely a local swarm would be the best.  If you know any beeks in the area you may want to get with them and they may be able to help you out as well as maybe going on a cutout or two with them to help.  That's how I got my first hive AND I never expected it, I was along for the experience. 


Edited out rambling

[Robo]

If your in the NE, you definitely want to get local acclimatized as it will greatly improve your chances.  Or at least northern breed bees.  A swarm would be best,  with a local raised nuc next.

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