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 significantly. It also provides excellent finger sensitivity and blade feeling, and is preferred by many épée fencers for distance manipulation. The trade-off is that it requires more developed finger strength and technique to use effectively, and produces less powerful parries than anatomical grips.
The Pistol Grip
The pistol grip — also called an orthopedic or anatomic grip — is molded to fit the natural shape of the hand, with finger grooves and a thumb rest. It is the dominant grip choice in modern competition. It is more intuitive and easier to learn with, produces stronger parries and more powerful actions, and is better suited to fast, aggressive modern fencing styles. The trade-off is less reach than a French grip used in the pommeled position, and it must be purchased in left or right-handed versions.
Variations: Belgian, Visconti, and More
Within the pistol grip category there are numerous variations in shape, size, and material. Belgian grips, Visconti grips, and other anatomical designs each have slightly different finger groove positions and palm widths. If possible, try several before buying — what feels comfortable in your hand is usually the right choice.
Which Grip Is Right for You?
Beginners should start with a pistol grip as it is easier to learn with and covers all the basics. Épée fencers seeking extra reach may want to consider the French grip once their technique is solid. In foil and sabre, pistol grips dominate at all competitive levels. Grip choice is personal and the best approach is to experiment and ask your coach for guidance specific to your technique. Browse our full grip selection at klothomaiafencing.com.