Building an Observation Hive

[tshnc01]

After listening to Michael Bush's presentation at the Northeast Treatment Free Beekeeping Conference, I have decided to build a 3 deep frame observation hive (see Michael's presentation at http://www.bushfarms.com/beeshas.htm).  The design I plan to use is based roughly on the design from Beesource:  http://www.beesource.com/build-it-yourself/3-frame-observation-hive-2/.

I am trying to decide if I should have the glass slide down the panel (as shown in the design) or if management is easier if at least one side of the hive has the glass installed in a panel that is hinged.

Thanks,

Tim Huntley

[rdy-b]

The OB hive i use for markets has one side hinged -makes for easy opening if they build wax from frame to glass which is often in my unit-dont think you could very easily slide the panel out if there was wax-someone else has built a fine OB hive from the planes and i think he used little plastic stays like you would find for a mirror here is pics of what he has done
http://www.beesource.com/forums/showthread.php?t=232780    RDY-B

[Bee-Bop]

Here is a real nice one down in the Tradein Post Section.

http://forum.beemaster.com/index.php/topic,22979.0.html

Bee-Bop

[tshnc01]

rdy-b, I am definitely leaning toward hinging one side as you suggest.  Thanks...

Bee-Bop, Yep, very nice indeed... 

[Michael Bush]

It gets propolized in pretty badly with the groove.  I would use those "feet" that are used to put mirrors on the wall and attach it to the frame with those.  I would make the space between the glass 1 3/4".

[Ross]

You can also use a wooden bead, like a quarter round or 1/4" square to set the glass. 

http://www.myoldtools.com/OBhive/OB_Chapter1.htm
http://www.myoldtools.com/OBhive/OB_Chapter2.htm
http://www.myoldtools.com/OBhive/OB_Chapter3.htm

[Scadsobees]

Tim,
I used the beesource plans, and instead of grooved on both sides, I ripped off the strip off of one side and instead secured that in with a few screws, much like Ross has.  I could still slide it in the grooves, or I can just take the screws and that strip out.  I rarely open it, and if I do, I only ever need to open one side.

[tshnc01]

Thanks for the additional ideas....Hopefully I can get started building this week.

...Tim