Fencing Equipment
Sabreur and sabreuse alike (swordsmen and swordswomen) for practical reasons prepare two sets of fencing wear: one for competition, the other for practices. Competition fencing clothes and equipments are expensive because they are made up of clothing designed to withstand pressure. They are not to be exposed to frequent puncturing, and thus are only worn during tournaments. Practice wears are used most frequently; they are inexpensive, such that they are easy and cheap to replace whenever they break.
The following are the standard equipments used for competition. These are mandated by Federation Internationale d’Escrime (FIE), the official international governing organization on fencing sports.
• Fencing Masks – are tested to pass a 12-kg punch test. If you are using a practice mask, make sure that you test it before using. It must also have a sturdy mesh in front, and a bib of about 1600-newton strength as a protection for the neck.
• Fencing Jacket and breeches – must be 800-newton strong. Fabrics are usually woven with special nylon and other resilient, tough materials. Special care must be given to the clothing as it is susceptible to corrosion, which lessens its effectiveness.
• Fencing Gloves – should have leather construction, and be significantly extended to cover some parts of the forearm. It should not be too fit because it will likely suffer tearing. For practices, a simple workman glove is sufficient.
• Special Fencing Saber shoes – are available at the nearest sport shops. For practices, you can just use volleyball or badminton shoes instead.
• Fencing Socks – must be knee-high. There should be no skin exposed in any of the legs and arms. For practices, your soccer and baseball socks are good substitutes.
• Saber blades – must be certified by FIE. For competitions, the saber blades bear a stamp of FIE. They are twice as expensive as practice swords, but they last twice as long as well. Do not use broken swords, for they will be a danger to you and your sparring mate.
Fencing Saber on your own
Wanting to try out, but scared? Wishing to feel like a real swordsman? Saber is a very good sport for the young and old. Although it may take years for a beginner to become an expert on fencing, saber has the best techniques and the most rewarding experience in swordplay. Here’s how to start:
1. Sign up for a crash course on fencing, invest on books, and know what fencing is. Remember, fencing is all about strategy and cunning so you need all the knowledge you can get to keep you on track.
2. Enroll in your local martial arts center and be trained by a master. Bad habits are easy to acquire if you have an incompetent coach, or worse no one, to guide you.
3. Learn and acquire the most basic of skills, such as correct and proper footwork, bladework, and timing.
4. Be open to new tactics by being conscious of your skills and learning new stunts from your sparring mates and other master sabreurs.
5. Expose yourself to saber fencing matches by tuning in to sports channels, watching sparring videos online, and joining amateur competitions in your local area.
6. Lastly, do not forget to enjoy and hang out with your friends engaged in the same hobby. They can be your sparring mates who can test your skills to the limits, and encourage you to continue improving.
Related Articles:
Here are some recommended articles for sabers.
Civil war Sabers – Military dress and battle-ready sabers were at the forefront when the winds of civil war ravaged America in 19th century.
Replica Cavalry Saber – Fancy an imaginative sword adorning your living room? Read on and discover some gems of replica sabers from noted and reputable sword-making companies.
19th century German sabers – German and Swiss sabers are one of the most exquisite swords from Europe. Discover of some of the best here in this article.
Japan Cavalry Saber – Japanese smiths are second to none when it comes to metal forging. You will be in for a surprise of their version of the European cavalry sabers.
French Cuirassier Saber – Cuirassier succeeded the armored knights in 15th century. Relive their adventures and stories of the battlefield as narrated by the ancient cavalry swords that they left behind for posterity.
Light Saber – Who would of course forget Obi Wan Kenobi and Master Yoda? These iconic characters from Star Wars universe will be forever etched in our minds with a light saber in their hands. Learn how the light saber works here.
Heavenly Sword and Dragon Sabers – If Chinese epics are your thing, then this article is a must-read. It will take you to the heart of Oriental fiction, and offers a showcase of Chinese versions of saber.
Pirate Swords – Take a peek on the lives of pirates adrift in the sea by appreciating their rugged, crude swords.
