14 x 12 - Do they cut down swarming?

[Walrus]

For my bees single national hive is way too small.

My 14x12 bees still swarm, but I'm sure it takes longer for them to get there than if I tried to keep them in a single national BB with a QE above.

I don't particularly like the frame size/shape but I've got them now.

 

[Monsieur Abeille]

As per everyone else. My 14x12s have swarmed at least four times between them (recaptured three). Extra size may delay the inevitable but I think if they are swarmy bees then they will swarm.

 

[itma]

A 14x12 doesn't stop swarming.

But using a box that is too small (single brood standard WBC?) is a brilliant way of getting several QCs for small-scale Q rearing!

14x12 is best thought of as being an all-in-one brood-and-a-half.
The box is unwieldy, but the frames aren't. Having a bee buddy to help when you NEED to shift the thing is pretty essential.
It seems very good for overwintering.
Staying in the British Standard family has advantages.
I'm happy with the things.