Dave, of course, is entirely correct when he says "While you claim that
Langstroth is 'standard' in USA there is very little true
'interchangeability' between manufacturers."

While the differences are small, typically less than 1/2 inch (~ 1 cm), it
does not take much to violate 'bee space' and cause a mess with burr comb.
I am of the opinion that one of the reasons for all the small variations is
to try to keep customers from changing suppliers!

It is interesting that hives sold in England were formerly made in the US.
I didn't know that, but I am aware that much of the wood used today is
imported from the US.  While I know that much of the wood in Sweden, Norway
and Finland is spruce (not pine), and therefore not really suitable for bee
hives, I am surprised that there is not ample pine in Eastern Europe.

Around here, in upstate NY, there are ample supplies of high quality (wide)
White Pine as well as healthy and growing Amish communities.  It seems as if
every other Amish family has a sawmill and if one can properly dry and plane
the wood it is a comparative bargain.

--
Lloyd Spear
Owner Ross Rounds, Inc.
Manufacture of equipment for round comb honey sections,
Sundance Pollen Traps, and producer of Sundance custom labels.
Contact your dealer or www.RossRounds.com

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