fencing weapons [2]

In the Olympic Games, the foil, the épée and the saber are used by both men and women.

parts of the weapon

Weapons can be thrusting (touch made with the tip of the blade), cutting (with the blade) or slicing (with the back edge).

guard

Metal rounded part that protects the armed hand during a match.

button

Bulbous end of the blade; with electric weapons, the button triggers the switch of the electric apparatus when it makes a valid touch.

blade

Hitting part of the weapon; measuring about 3 feet, it is made of flexible metal and is thin and tapered.

handle

Wood, metal or plastic part for holding and wielding the weapon.

mounting

Part of the weapon to which the blade is attached.

medium

Part of the blade between the forte and the foible.

forte

Thickest part of the blade, near the guard.

foible

Thinnest part of the blade, up to its end.

pommel

Metal knob at the end of the handle to balance the weapon.