My hives are so calm and gentle that I don't have to use smoke. In fact it seems to go better when I don't. I don't wear my protective gear and have not had any problems.
That being said...... LOL :-D
Today started out no different even though it had been raining and overcast. First three hives no problem at all as usual. When into my best hive. It has three boxes. Went into all three and no problems.
Was looking for a frame with brood, larvae and eggs to give to my maybe queenless hive to build their numbers and maybe they would make a queen. Found one with lotsa everything I needed except for it had, you guessed it, LOTSA bees on it as well. Well we all know you can't put lotsa bees from one hive into another. So you need to shake them off.
Now a SMART person would have put on protective gear at this time. :) I have done this before without getting stung so I thought it'll be ok this time. First shake no problem. Second shake..... well I got chased across the yard frame still in hand some bees still on the frame. Got stung on the ear and one on the back of the arm. Could have been much worse. I WAS LUCKY!
Anyway, put on the jacket and veil, picked up the frame and started back out to the hive to finish. Then I heard a buzz, buzz, buzz. I had a bee in the suit with me. LMAO! Quickly put the frame down and got the bee out. Got back in the suit and finished the transfer and all is well.
Had a great time. :) Lesson learned... If you are going to shake bees, WEAR THE SUIT. Just saying.
Hope you enjoyed.
David