Defining Top Bar Hives

[SlickMick]

So how do we define a top bar hive?

Is it any hive that uses bars across the top of the hive instead of frames or is it more involved than that?

Can a vertical "conventional" hive be a top bar hive if it uses bars with starter strips instead of frames and foundation for example?

Mick

[Michael Bush]

I think the most accurate name would be "top bar only" hives.  All hives have top bars...

[SlickMick]

You are correct of course, Michael. I suppose I was wondering if TBH's are just generally classified as horizontal hives of if there is consideration of including the vertically stacked hive with top bars (only).

Are there beeks out there who work with vertically stacked hives using top bars only?

Mick

[BjornBee]

Slick,
Here is an example of what you are asking. The Warre hive is a perfect example. TBH with a stacked configuration.

Below that is a TBH comb from my trench style hive. Although I do super above my trench style hive with standard supers so I can extract them. And of course the standard Kenyan TBH with the sloped comb. Not really what you were asking for, but maybe this helps those who are new on these issues.

[SlickMick]

That's a lovely looking hive.

And the comb is just superb

I imagine you would have to crush and strain as I could not imagine it standing up to extractors

Mick