FAQ

What Is Right of Way in Fencing? Foil and Sabre Priority Explained
The Concept of Right of Way Right of way (also called priority or precedence) is a fundamental rule in foil and sabre that determines which fencer scores a point when both athletes land a touch simultaneously. It does not apply in épée, where simultaneous hits both score as a double touch. Without right of way, two athletes could both rush forward and hit each other with no clear winner. The rule rewards tactical, structured attack and defense — it encodes the logic of a real sword fight into a competitive... Read more...
How to Choose a Fencing Grip: Pistol vs French vs Orthopedic
The Handle Makes a Difference The grip is your direct point of contact with the blade. It affects how you control distance, execute actions, and feel blade contact. Choosing the right grip for your level, weapon, and technique can meaningfully improve your fencing. The French Grip The French grip is the oldest and most traditional handle design — a long, straight grip with a slightly curved cross-section and a large pommel at the end. It allows the fencer to hold the weapon near the pommel (called pommeling), extending effective reach... Read more...
What Is a Fencing Lame? Everything You Need to Know
What Is a Lame? A lame (pronounced "lah-MAY") is a conductive metallic jacket worn over the fencing jacket in foil and sabre. It forms a critical part of the electronic scoring system, allowing the scoring box to distinguish valid touches on the conductive target area from off-target touches. Épée fencers do not use a lame because the entire body is a valid target — no distinction between on-target and off-target touches is needed. How Does a Lame Work? The lame is woven from metallic fibers that conduct electricity. When an... Read more...
How Do Fencing Competitions Work? A Guide for Beginners
The Structure of a Fencing Competition Fencing competitions follow a consistent structure at all levels, from local club events to the Olympic Games. Understanding this structure will help you prepare mentally and logistically for your first event. Phase 1: Pools Most competitions begin with a pool phase. Competitors are divided into groups of 5 to 7 athletes. Each fencer fights every other fencer in their pool once, with bouts typically fenced to 5 touches in a 3-minute period. Results from the pool phase are used to rank all competitors using... Read more...
How to Care for Your Fencing Equipment
Why Equipment Maintenance Matters Fencing equipment is an investment. A well-maintained jacket, mask, and weapon can last for years; neglected gear deteriorates quickly and can become a safety risk. Good maintenance habits also reduce costs over time and ensure your equipment always performs reliably. Cleaning Your Fencing Jacket and Breeches Protective clothing absorbs sweat during every training session and must be washed regularly. Check the care label — most modern fencing jackets can be machine washed at 30°C or 40°C. Turn garments inside out before washing to protect the outer... Read more...
How to Choose a Fencing Blade: A Complete Guide
Choosing the Right Fencing Blade The blade is arguably the most performance-critical piece of fencing equipment. The right blade improves your feel for the weapon, lasts longer, and suits your style of fencing. Here is what you need to know. Blade Grades: Practice vs Competition Blades are broadly categorized by quality and intended use. Practice and club blades are durable, affordable, and designed to withstand the repeated impacts of daily training — ideal for beginners and recreational fencers. Competition blades are more responsive, with better flex characteristics, and are often... Read more...
What Is FIE Rating? Understanding Fencing Equipment Standards
What Does FIE Rating Mean? When shopping for fencing equipment, you will encounter Newton (N) ratings — most commonly 350N and 800N. These numbers refer to the puncture resistance of the protective material, measured in Newtons of force required to pierce it. The Fédération Internationale d'Escrime (FIE) sets the safety standards that govern international competition. Understanding these ratings helps you choose gear that is both safe and appropriate for your level of play. 350N Equipment 350N is the minimum safety standard for fencing equipment. This level of protection is suitable... Read more...
What Equipment Do You Need to Start Fencing?
Essential Fencing Equipment Starting fencing doesn't require an immediate large investment — most clubs loan equipment to beginners. But once you're training regularly, owning your own gear improves hygiene, comfort, and performance. Here is a complete breakdown of what you need. 1. Fencing Mask The mask is your most critical piece of safety equipment. It protects your face and neck with a steel mesh bib and padded interior. Masks are weapon-specific in competition (different ratings for foil/sabre vs épée) but general training masks are available. Look for at minimum a... Read more...
What Is Fencing? A Beginner's Complete Guide to the Sport
What Is Fencing? Fencing is a combat sport in which two athletes fight with bladed weapons — épée, foil, or sabre — scoring points by landing touches on their opponent. It is one of only five sports to have featured at every modern Olympic Games since 1896, making it one of the oldest and most prestigious competitive sports in the world. Despite its roots in swordsmanship and dueling, modern fencing is a fast, technical, and deeply strategic sport. Elite matches can be decided in fractions of a second, and top... Read more...
Épée vs Foil vs Sabre: Which Fencing Weapon Is Right for You?
Choosing Your Weapon One of the first decisions every new fencer faces is choosing a weapon. Épée, foil, and sabre each have a completely different feel, ruleset, and culture. There is no universally "best" weapon — the right choice depends on your personality, physical strengths, and what you enjoy most. Foil: The Classical Starting Point Foil is historically considered the traditional starting weapon, and many coaches still recommend it for beginners because it teaches the foundational concept of right of way (also called priority or precedence). Target area: The torso... Read more...