How to Identify Fencing Weapons

Fencing is a fast paced sport that uses wits, reflexes and strength. There are three types of fencing weapons used in modern fencing, the foil, epee and sabre. Each type of sword has its own characteristics and rules of use when fencing.

1. Measure the length of the sword. Most fencing weapons for adults range from 40 inches to 45 inches in length. This includes a roughly seven-inch hilt and a blade length of between 33 inches and 38 inches. Smaller swords would be used by children.


2. Examine the hilt. The hilt is comprised of the grip and the guard. A fencer holds the sword by the grip. Sabres usually have a straight grip also known as a French grip. The grip of epees and foils can have quite a bit more variation. The pistol grip, which is bent, is increasing in popularity because its ergonomic design may prevent injuries. The guard of both the foil and the epee typically is a simple bell shape, although the guard of the epee is larger than that of a foil. The sabre, however, often has a large guard that curves from the top to the bottom of the hilt to protect the hand.


3. Consider the blade. The foil is thin and flexible. It is used for thrusting; only the tip can score points in a competition. In cross section, the blade shape is square. The epee is also a flexible, thrusting blade. It is slightly thicker and stiffer than the foil. Its distinguishing characteristic is the concave shape of the blade. It will have a ‘U’ shaped groove running down its length. In contrast, the sabre can be used as a thrusting and a slashing weapon for fencing. The blade is both more broad and flat than the foil and epee. It is more flexible from side to side and less flexible for thrusting.


4. Heft the blades. You will notice a difference in their weight. The foil is the lightest of the blades. It was originally a practice blade and is still the blade of choice to learn the art of fencing. The epee is heavier than the foil, while the sabre is the heaviest of the three blades.


5. Look for electrical wiring. Competition foils are often wired. It is important in a competition to know who touched their opponent first. The fencers’ foils are often wired so that when the sword tip comes in contact with an opponent the touch is automatically registered. In lightning fast combat, this is a fair and impartial way to judge.