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FENCERLENS / THE FENCING FIELD GUIDE

Épée, foil and sabre: where to start

Understand the three weapons, then choose a first lesson.

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Getting started · Updated 2026-09-24 · FencerLens

Three different games

Épée and foil score with the point; sabre also uses the blade. Épée has whole-body target and can award a double hit. Foil and sabre have restricted target areas and use right of way. Two lights do not by themselves tell you who receives a point.

Choose a place to learn

Ask local clubs which weapons they teach to beginners, how trial lessons work, and which equipment is provided. A timetable you can sustain and a coach you can communicate with are useful starting points. Try the available weapons before buying specialist equipment.

A question for your first lesson

Ask the coach to show one valid scoring action and one action that does not score in your weapon. Watch the action, lights and referee together. This is more useful than trying to memorise every rule before starting.

References & further reading

This is an introductory guide. Check current federation documents and the organiser’s requirements for your event.

Next: put it into practice →