Andrew & Tiffany Dubas wrote:
 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Dave D. Cawley <[log in to unmask]>
> >        I'm going to have 7 medium supers from my hives. I've never
> >extracted before, I had someone else do it for me for a few bucks. I can
> >borrow an hand extractor from someone. Should I do it myslef or have my
> >friend do it for me? What are the pitfalls of doing it myself for the
> >first time
 
> Just Do it.  what a better way to learn.    enjoy the experience of your
> labor. there is nothing better. If your friend is a friend maybe ask him
> over to help.
 
However - 7 supers seems a lot to do with a hand extractor.  If you do it,
be sure your room and supers are quite warm (at least 85F, in my opinion) or
it will take a long time doing it manually.  Also, the small hand extractors
tend to be tangential, which puts tremendous strain on the comb when full.
Be very careful to start extremely slowly so as not to break the combs.  A
small radial extractor would be much easier to use, if you can get one.
 
Ted Fischer
Dexter, Michigan USA