Fencing Epee
Fencing Epee
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Epee

The epee is the closest weapon to a genuine duel. Your whole body is a target. Yes. Your hands, feet, head, back, etc. All of you.

Before you start reading this page, or if you find yourself confused by the terminology, check out this glossary of fencing terms.

Buying an Epee

It'd be a shame to buy an epee for the wrong hand.  Be prepared.

Epee grips are similar to those allowed for foil.
Different Grips for Epee

French Grip 

  • French grip is the most common for beginners.

Pistol Grip 

  • A modern, orthopedic invention - introduced in the 1970s.
  • Belgian and Visconti are the most commonly used pistol grips.

Italian Grips 

  • Grip with finger rings and a crossbar.
  • More grip than a French grip, but not as much as a pistol grip.
  • Only used in foil and epee.

Protective Gear

Your whole body is a target in this game.  Make sure you're well covered.

  • Masks  - Your head is fair target.
    • Keep in mind when purchasing a mask for sabre that you'll be getting hit in the head a lot. You want something that won't fall apart after a beating!
  • Jackets  - Remember that your arms are fair play.
  • Gloves  - Your grip is different on a epee. Keep that in mind with the gloves.
  • Plastrons  - A half-jacket that gives extra protection underneath the official jacket.
    • Make sure there's no underarm seam. That would line up with the jacket seam and give you a very vulnerable spot.
  • Chest Protector  - Either little pads that slip inside the jacket or a whole plastic getup that is strapped underneath everthing.
    • Highly recommended for women. Extra support and extra protection for sensitive areas.
  • Cup  - Just like the rest of the sports.

Competitive Gear

All of this stuff is wired to monitor touches by your opponent.  Unlike the other weapons, here you're going to need sensitive shoes, socks, etc.

Note: Epeeists do not wear lames, as the entire body is a valid target.

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Article started by virgil1last updated by 
Charlie