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General Fencing: Fencing Styles & Terms - Weapons
My Fencing: My Coaches - Rambling 'Bout Fencing - Front Of Site


Foil is the weapon that beginning fencers traditionally begin their training with. It's characterized by its square blade, small bell (not the musical kind!), and light weight. Foil is a thrust weapon.


Epee (pronounced EPP-ay) is the second grade of weapon that fencers move on to. It's slightly heavier than the foil with a large bell that covers the hand (the hand is a target in epee fencing), and triangular shaped blade. Epee is a thrust weapon.


Sabre (SAY-ber) is the third and final fencing weapon. The handle is characterized by a straight piece that the fencer grips with a curved bit on the side that protects the hand from the side, rather than the top. It was originally-intended for cavalry riders and is a cut-and-thrust weapon.
College of Charleston Fencing Club Website