Has anyone experimented w/something like this? Here's what I am thinking... Use standard deep frames from a Langstroth hive, build a 4' long box to enclose place them in (like a TBH), build follower boards (like a TBH), put legs on it (like a TBH) and manage it like a TBH. However, you have standard deep frames that could have foundation or be foundationless (what I am thinking, as you could still use the crush-n-strain methods of harvesting honey).
Why? I like the principals behind the TBH but so far my two are a pain. One has built all sorts of waco comb on the edges then straightened things up when they ran into my guides for them on the top bar. The other started w/fantastic comb but are now attaching it to the sides all the way down to the screen almost. Thus, I like the idea of the frame in the Langstroth hive instead of a top bar.
Jeremy
You and me both :) I'm going in today for the first time in 2 weeks. If things are as messed up as last time, this is something I am going to consider, too, although I would have to first build slanted frames for the 4 hives my husband already built.
I am pretty sure this is exactly what Michael Bush does on some of his hives, what you're already described.
I have to say, my bees are doing plenty of attaching and reattaching on the sides. I went with sloped sides to prevent this, but it does not appear to be working, so your idea really sounds like a great one!
Michael Bush does this and he calls it a long hive or a horizontal hive.
http://www.bushfarms.com/beeshorizontalhives.htm
I built one and it works great, 48 inches long, and I started with standard frames with 1 inch starter strips of wax, they have about 18 frames drawn out, just starting solid frames of honey, just be careful looking at the frames they dont attach to the bottom of the frame always and it can swing. Looks like an easy way to get comb honey, Next week I'll start cutting some off and let them rework it.
When winter comes make sure and move all the brood to one end so they can keep working toward there stores, and not away. I call mine a langstroth 33 frame long hive...