any beekeepers in the house?

I don't get near things with stingers, unless I have my can of ether and lighter handy that is.

I would say go for it John.
My son has one hive, and they are not allot of work. We got 15# of wonderful honey this year.
We will see how many survive the winter, just put some sugar in yesterday and found several hundred died (which is normal).
Only using a smoker you can maintain the hive without protective gear. We don't bother with hoods or gloves and they leave you alone.
Very interesting and rewarding, and an integral part of crop production.

I didn't think you would want to fry them.

We have some problems around here with wood bees, they can tear the crap out of things. Down at the farm and when I see any up here I would just zap them with the ether flame, the wings would burn right of, they would drop then step on them, problem solved. Wasps get handled the same way, or anything else with a stinger for that matter...

The good bee's work for us, we have a symbiotic relationship.

Trouty56 wrote: I may try this at some point....my interest is up now....

Its a great hobby and you will love the tasty product they produce.