Review on Ade Advanced Optics Brix Refractometer by Ans Brownlee

As most reviews say this is a great value refractometer perfect for the hobby beekeeper who doesn't want to invest in an expensive instrument. The only reason I don't give it 5 stars is that the instructions were written for a different refractometer (but they apply if you use the correct standard and adjust accordingly) and the dropper provided is probably not suitable for honey. Using the extra virgin olive oil calibration procedure outlined in other reviews, I obtained results for three separate batches of honey that were consistent with other honey characteristics, particularly viscosity. The honey with the lowest viscosity was commercially available "raw and unfiltered" honey purchased from an apiary store. Its moisture content was 18.1%, which is within the legal limit for honey. The other two samples were my own honey harvested in April and May (2016) this year. The first measured moisture content of 15.6% and the other of 15.0%. Both are more viscous (thicker) than commercial honey, so their moisture content is lower. I am very happy with this purchase. It comes in a nice case and the care and sizing instructions are fine if you use extra virgin olive oil instead of water. For the price, this can't be beat for honey analysis. For the record, I'm a Ph.D. Analytical Chemist.