I've heard some say their bees were so gentle they could work them with no protection, or even no smoke. I had 2 hives like that 3 weeks ago. Today, I smoked them both and opened the first one. It was normal. I opened the second one and walked away quickly. About 20 stings when I opened it and more as I walked over 50 feet away. QUEENLESS
Always go in expecting the worst, then disrobe if desired, unless you want a large dose of bee venom therapy.
