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3. MAKING THE TOP BAR
Cutting top bars is the most difficult and expensive part of hive
building. It is essential they are 32 or 33 mm (3.2 or 3.3 cm)
wide. The width of the top bars can be measured using a bottle
top or a used 9 volt battery (the only square shaped battery).
Cut
along
this
line
32 mm
Most top bars are wedge shaped in cross section. However,
many people have success with simpler top bars made of local
materials that are easier to cut than best timber. This top bar is
made of raphia palm.
Basic Beekeeping Manual 1: How to make a Moveable Comb Top Bar Beehive (© Author Pam Gregory, who offers
this as her gift to beekeepers in developing countries)