Question about capping scratchers...

What is the proper technique for using a capping scratcher? Does one use it to "poke" the caps open in an up-and-down motion, or does one draw it across the caps laterally?

Hi
You wrote:
What is the proper technique for using a capping scratcher? Does one use it to "poke" the caps open in an up-and-down motion, or does one draw it across the caps laterally?
Reply:
Both of the above can be done. I have seen beekeepers do both. But the most successful way to use a fork scratcher is to gently lift the caps off without damaging the cell walls. Just push the prongs in horizontally and lift1
Sincerely,
Dee A. Lusby