Swarm Retrieval Tips. Your Input Please.. Lets help our newer beekeepers.

[Ben Framed]

I have one for you.
I retrieve swarms basically two ways. Of course the old standard limb shaking method 'is' a standard. When I do a limb shake I use an empty printer paper box for the catch box. Now, holding the box in one hand while shaking the limb with the other sometimes can be a little awkward when the main body of the swarm hits the box. The weight can shift which can lead to the box slipping which can actually cause one to lose the box, bees, and all to the ground, especially when on a stepladder. To remedy this; Cut an extra strip pf cardboard from another source the width of the bottom of the box from (side to side) about 3 inches wide. Adjust the slack to fit your hand and simply glue and staple this strip on the bottom, allowing room for your had to fit into. This forms a support (like a glove sort of), with will not allow the box to slip. Works very well while giving that extra support needed in such a case.

Thinking of helping 'beginners' as well as 'seasoned' beekeeper, what are some swarm retrieval tips that you would have to offer?

Thanks
Phillip