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The AZ Hive

The Slovenian AZ beehive has centuries of history, designed by renowned beekeeper Anton Žnideršič. Unlike the Langstroth hive common in the USA — where frames are accessed by disassembling the hive from the top — the AZ hive is accessed through a door at the rear, leaving the hive undisturbed. AZ hives are ideal for beekeepers who cannot lift heavy loads, those in harsh climates, and anyone managing multiple hives. Here, man has adapted to the bee — not the other way around. The spacers exist so bees can build comb to their own exacting standards, undisturbed, in their own space.

The AZ Frame

AZ frames differ from Langstroth frames in one key way: rather than hanging from the lip of the box, they are supported by rods on the bottom. This design requires two spacers attached to the rear of the hive and two more to the door, which maintains the perfect distance between frames — allowing bees to build comb exactly as nature intended. Langstroth frames can also be used in the Langstroth modified AZ hives and require half as many spacers. Frame spacers are essential for all AZ hives, whether original AZ or modified AZ style.

The AZ Spacer

The AZ Spacer is a precision device that keeps frames in the perfect position to optimize the hive. Bees build honeycomb to nature's specifications — the spacer exists so they can do exactly that, undisturbed and on their own terms. In this hive, man has adapted to the bee's perfection. Our spacers fit both the original Slovenian AZ hive and the modified Langstroth AZ hive. They are the same spacer — one solution for both hive styles.

AZ Spacer Material

Our frame spacers feature Galvalume coating — a superior alternative to standard galvanizing that provides exceptional rust resistance and edge protection. The same trusted coating used on commercial roofing and metal studs, with a proven lifespan of up to 40 years. Certified lead-free and arsenic-free, our spacers create a safe, healthy environment for your bees and honey production.

Spacer Dimensions

4 Frame - 5 13/16" or 149 mm
7 Frame - 10 3/16" or 260 mm
10 Frame - 14 5/8" or 371 mm
5 Frame - 7 5/16" or 186 mm
8 Frame - 11 11/16" or 297 mm
11 Frame - 16 1/16" or 409 mm
6 Frame - 8 3/4" or 223 mm
9 Frame - 13 1/8" or 334 mm
12 Frame - 17 9/16" or 446 mm

From Concept to Reality

Building a production line for AZ hive frame spacers was a 3-year adventure. Just 40 miles away we found one of the premier die makers in the southeast USA. Through eBay, we located a Bliss CH-22 punch press stored for 25 years after a complete rebuild — legacy technology brought back to life. Putting that equipment to work to produce a product virtually unavailable in the western hemisphere, supporting a style of beekeeping that keeps hobbyists active longer, has been deeply rewarding.

About AZ Hive Frame Spacers

Located in Gulf Breeze, Florida USA, AZ Hive Frame Spacers produces the spacer hardware required to build your own AZ hive. Whether you are a novice hobbyist or a seasoned woodworker and apiarist, we provide the spacers required to make AZ hives. These frame spacers provide the exact 'bee space' needed to enable your bees to make brood and honey for a healthy hive.

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Shipping & Payments

Price is for spacers only. Shipping is calculated at checkout. Due to sudden rise in shipping due to fuel prices, unfortunately, I reluctantly have to reflect those costs in the shipping.

International Orders

We currently ship anywhere in the USA. For international orders, please contact us providing the quantity of spacers, the size of spacers, and your shipping address and phone number. We will be happy to provide a quotation.

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