For beekeepers with up to 10 supers, I'd recommend trying an uncapping
   fork, instead of any of the knives or planes.
        Get one of the metal forks with tines with an offset or double jog
   half way along. Mine has a wooden handle. I find it works better than
   the plastic ones with straight tines (capping scratchers).
        Cappings are removed by sliding the tines into the airspace under
   capped cells. Ideally, the wax comes off nearly without honey.
   No electric power required, no heat.
 
   It may not be quite as fast as a heated knife in experienced hands, but
   the cleanup is quicker. With some practice, it might keep up with a
   knife.
 
 
   Kerry Clark, Apiculture Specialist
   B.C. Ministry of Agriculture
   1201 103 Ave
   Dawson Creek B.C.
        V1G 4J2  CANADA          Tel (604) 784-2225     fax (604) 784-2299
   INTERNET [log in to unmask]