Fencing is the combat sport where fencers fight with the traditional skillsets of swordsmanship. The goal of fencing is to accumulate points by touching your opponent with your sword. There are three types of fencing weapons and each type of sword has a rule set and special technique to use.

The foil is a light thrusting weapon and can only be hit within the torso but not the arms or legs, the épée is like the Foil but much heavier with a hitbox of the whole body, and the sabre is a light cutting weapon that allows a hitbox above the torso including arms and head. Equipment includes a full-body protective outfit and a mask. Fencing was the first sport in the Olympics and is still involved in the summer games.

What is a fencing sword called?

There are three different types of fencing and they all have specific words. Foil is one sword and is a lightweight and flexible sword used for thrusting or poking. Épée is the second sword and is much like the foil, but it’s much stiffer. Sabre is the third and final sword that is meant for thrusting and cutting.

Where did fencing originate?

Origins of fencing are believed to date back to Spain when swordsmen were doing trails for duels and self-defense training. Modern fencing originated in Italia in the 18th century for the same reason: to development swordsmanship skills on footwork and how to handle a sword against opponents.

How is fencing scored?

Points are awarded using the tip of your sword to strike your opponent. Depending on the three types of fencing, scoring is different in all three disciples. In foil you accumulate points by only striking the torso, épée is scored when hitting the entire body, and sabre allows a hitbox above the torso including arms and head.

* Under Development *

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Fencing Guides
Browse through our curated Fencing Guides for additional categorizations, tips, details, variations, styles, and histories of Fencing. Guides provide additional insights into the unique properties and shared relationships between elements.
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4.73” | 12 cm (Handguard)
43.31” | 110 cm
17.63 oz | 500 g (Max)
Fencing Foil
12.000
110.000
0.500
4700
https://p3d.in/e/g9DoJ
GUIDE
3D
Fencing FoilView of a Fencing Foil in 3D available for downloadView of a Fencing Foil in 3D available for download
.375” | 10 mm
4.92’-6.56’ | 1.5-2 m (Contest)
45.93’ | 14 m (Contest)
21-28 ft² | 2-2.6 m²
Fencing Piste
1.000
200.000
1400.000
2.60
100
https://p3d.in/e/JOie8
GUIDE
3D
Fencing PistePerspective view of a 3D model of a Fencing PistePerspective view of a 3D model of a Fencing Piste
19.69” | 50 cm
4.92’-6.56’ | 1.5-2 m (Contest)
45.93’ | 14 m (Contest)
21-28 ft² | 2-2.6 m² (Contest)
Fencing Piste - Raised
50.000
200.000
1400.000
2.60
100
https://p3d.in/e/eP4F0
GUIDE
3D
Fencing Piste - RaisedPerspective view of a 3D model of a Fencing Piste (Raised Final Strip)Perspective view of a 3D model of a Fencing Piste (Raised Final Strip)
5.5” | 14 cm (Handguard)
5.9” | 15 cm (Handguard)
41.34” | 105 cm
17.63 oz | 500 g (Max)
Fencing Sabre
14.000
15.000
105.000
0.500
3300
https://p3d.in/e/wNv2i
GUIDE
3D
Fencing SabrePerspective view of a 3D model of a Fencing SabrePerspective view of a 3D model of a Fencing Sabre
5.31” | 13.5 cm (Handguard)
43.31” | 110 cm
27.34 oz | 775 g (Max)
Fencing Épée
13.500
110.000
0.775
1200
https://p3d.in/e/28qJC
GUIDE
3D
Fencing Épée3D model of a Fencing Épée viewed in perspective3D model of a Fencing Épée viewed in perspective
Fencing Sabre
Scaled comparison drawings of the Fencing Sabre and other sports equipment

A Fencing Sabre is used by Fencing players to score with both the cutting edge and back of the blade, as opposed to only using the tip like the other Fencing weapons. The blade of the Fencing Sabre is made out of steel and is rectangular. The Fencing Sabre also has a guard that provides hand protection. Similar to the other Fencing weapons, Fencing Sabres are available in electric or non-electric types. When using a Fencing Sabre the target areas include the torso above the waist, head, and arms. The hands and any area below the waist are off-target.

Fencing Sabres have a length of 41.34” (105 cm), handguard width of 5.5” (14 cm), and handguard depth of 5.9” (15 cm). The mass of a Fencing Sabre is 17.63 oz (500 g).

Dimensioned elevation drawing of a Fencing Sabre measured with length, width and depth
A Fencing Sabre is used by Fencing players to score with both the cutting edge and back of the blade, as opposed to only using the tip like the other Fencing weapons. The blade of the Fencing Sabre is made out of steel and is rectangular. The Fencing Sabre also has a guard that provides protection.

Fencing Sabres have a length of 41.34” (105 cm), handguard width of 5.5” (14 cm), and handguard depth of 5.9” (15 cm). The mass of a Fencing Sabre is 17.63 oz (500 g).

Dimensioned elevation drawing of a Fencing Sabre measured with length, width and depth
Fencing Sabre
Height:
Width:
5.5” | 14 cm (Handguard)
Length:
41.34” | 105 cm
Depth:
5.9” | 15 cm (Handguard)
Weight:
17.63 oz | 500 g (Max)
Area:

Blade Length: 34.65” | 88 cm

Handle Length: 6.7” | 17 cm

Handguard Width: 5.5” | 14 cm

Handguard Depth: 5.9” | 15 cm
Materials: Maraging Steel

Drawings include:
Fencing Sabre Elevations (various)

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Fencing Piste - Raised Final Strip
Elevation drawing of a Fencing Piste (Raised Final Strip) with fighters and dimensions

A variation of the traditional Fencing Piste, the Raised Piste is often used for final matches that deserve more attention—thus raising the fencers to a more prominent height. Fencing pistes are used for fencing matches and training either in groups or individually. The different types of pistes include rubber conductive pistes, aluminum section pistes, and metallic pistes. Five lines are drawn clearly at right angles and a centerline cuts across the whole width with each side of the centerline having two en-garde lines on each of the center.

At the rear limits are two lines with clearly distinguishing colors to make the fencers aware of their position on the piste. Each fencer will stand 4 cm apart on guard lines after each touch. If the lines are not available, fencers can stand apart where the blades touch when they extend fully to both ends.

Raised Fencing Pistes maintain the regulated competition length of 45.93’ (14 m) and width between 4.92’-6.56’ (1.5-2 m), but add additional length to accommodate ramps on both sides of the piste. The height of a Raised Fencing Piste is typically 19.69" (50 cm). Fencing en-garde lines are 78.75” (2 m) from the center and warning zones are 78.75” (2 m) from the end of the piste. The total contest area of a Fencing Piste is 21-28 ft² (2-2.6 m²).

Dimensioned plan drawing of a Fencing Piste (Raised Final Strip) measured with length and width
A variation of the traditional Fencing Piste, the Raised Piste is often used for final matches that deserve more attention—thus raising the fencers to a more prominent height. Fencing pistes are used for fencing matches and training either in groups or individually.

Raised Fencing Pistes maintain the regulated competition length of 45.93’ (14 m) and width between 4.92’-6.56’ (1.5-2 m), but add additional length to accommodate ramps on both sides of the piste. The height of a Raised Fencing Piste is typically 19.69" (50 cm). Fencing en-garde lines are 78.75” (2 m) from the center and warning zones are 78.75” (2 m) from the end of the piste. The total contest area of a Fencing Piste is 21-28 ft² (2-2.6 m²).

Dimensioned plan drawing of a Fencing Piste (Raised Final Strip) measured with length and width
Fencing Piste - Raised Final Strip
Height:
19.69” | 50 cm
Width:
4.92’-6.56’ | 1.5-2 m (Contest)
Length:
45.93’ | 14 m (Contest)
Depth:
Weight:
Area:
21-28 ft² | 2-2.6 m² (Contest)

En-garde Lines: 78.75” | 2 m (from center)
Warning Zones: 78.75” | 2 m (from end)
Runoff Extension: 59”-78.75” | 1.5-2 m
Safety Border: 9.84” | 25 cm
Side Clearance: 9.84’ | 3 m
End Clearance: 13.12’ | 4 m
Ramp Extension: 8.2’ | 2.5 m
Overall Area (Clearance): 2836 ft² | 263.5 m²
Surface Materials: Rubber conductive, aluminum sections, or woven metal

Drawings include:
Fencing Piste (Raised) plan, side elevation (fencers)

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Fencing Épée
Group of scaled illustrations of various sporting equipment compared to the Fencing Épée

A Fencing Épée is the largest and heaviest of the 3 fencing weapons used in the sport of Fencing. The Fencing Épée is similar to the Fencing Foil, but has a stiffer triangular blade and larger bell guard. A Fencing Épée is made out of metal, is available in various sizes. There are 2 types of Fencing Épées: electric and non-electric. Using a Fencing Épée requires a large amount of concentration, accuracy, and speed. When using the Fencing Épée the entire body is a target including the head and limbs. A touch is only scored by using the tip of the blade.

Fencing Épées have a length of 43.31” (110 cm) and handguard width of 5.31” (13.5 cm). The mass of a Fencing Épée is 27.34 oz (775 g).

Drawing of a Fencing Épée showing dimensioned analysis of the length, width and depth
A Fencing Épée is the largest and heaviest of the 3 fencing weapons used in the sport of Fencing. The Fencing Épée is similar to the Fencing Foil, but has a stiffer triangular blade and larger bell guard. A Fencing Épée is made out of metal, is available in various sizes.

Fencing Épées have a length of 43.31” (110 cm) and handguard width of 5.31” (13.5 cm). The mass of a Fencing Épée is 27.34 oz (775 g).

Drawing of a Fencing Épée showing dimensioned analysis of the length, width and depth
Fencing Épée
Height:
Width:
5.31” | 13.5 cm (Handguard)
Length:
43.31” | 110 cm
Depth:
Weight:
27.34 oz | 775 g (Max)
Area:

Blade Length: 35.4” | 90 cm

Handle Length: 7.87” | 20 cm

Handguard Diameter: 5.31” | 13.5 cm
Handguard Depth: 1.12”-2.17” | 3-5.5 cm
Materials: Maraging Steel

Drawings include:
Fencing Épée Elevations (various)

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Fencing Piste
Scaled side elevation illustration the Fencing Piste with fencers and measurements

The Fencing Field of Play, known as the piste, is used for fencing matches and training either in groups or individually. The different types of pistes include rubber conductive pistes, aluminum section pistes, and metallic pistes. Five lines are drawn clearly at right angles and a centerline cuts across the whole width with each side of the centerline having two en-garde lines on each of the center.

At the rear limits are two lines with clearly distinguishing colors to make the fencers aware of their position on the piste. Each fencer will stand 4 cm apart on guard lines after each touch. If the lines are not available, fencers can stand apart where the blades touch when they extend fully to both ends.

Fencing Pistes have an overall competition length of 45.93’ (14 m) and width between 4.92’-6.56’ (1.5-2 m). Fencing en-garde lines are 78.75” (2 m) from the center and warning zones are 78.75” (2 m) from the end of the piste. The total contest area of a Fencing Piste is 21-28 ft² (2-2.6 m²).

Top view drawing of a Fencing Piste measured with length and width
The Fencing Field of Play, known as the piste, is used for fencing matches and training either in groups or individually. The different types of pistes include rubber conductive pistes, aluminum section pistes, and metallic pistes. Five lines are on the piste to differentiate zones.

Fencing Pistes have an overall competition length of 45.93’ (14 m) and width between 4.92’-6.56’ (1.5-2 m). Fencing en-garde lines are 78.75” (2 m) from the center and warning zones are 78.75” (2 m) from the end of the piste. The total contest area of a Fencing Piste is 21-28 ft² (2-2.6 m²).

Top view drawing of a Fencing Piste measured with length and width
Fencing Piste
Height:
.375” | 10 mm
Width:
4.92’-6.56’ | 1.5-2 m (Contest)
Length:
45.93’ | 14 m (Contest)
Depth:
Weight:
Area:
21-28 ft² | 2-2.6 m²

En-garde Lines: 78.75” | 2 m (from center)
Warning Zones: 78.75” | 2 m (from end)
Runoff Extension: 59”-78.75” | 1.5-2 m
Safety Border: 9.84” | 25 cm
Side Clearance: 9.84’ | 3 m
End Clearance: 13.12’ | 4 m
Overall Area (Clearance): 2378 ft² | 221 m²
Surface Materials: Rubber conductive, aluminum sections, or woven metal

Drawings include:
Fencing Piste plan, elevation (fencers)

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Fencing Foil
Size comparison diagram of the Fencing Foil compared to other similar fencing equipment

Fencing Foil is part of the 3 weapons used during the sport of Fencing. The Fencing Foil is made out of metal and has a rectangular blade. The blade is created to bend so it does not break or harm an opponent. The basic parts of the Fencing Foil are the pommel, grip, guard, and blade. There are 2 types of Fencing Foils: electric and non-electric. Non-electric foils are typically used during practice only. When using a Fencing Foil, the targets are the torso and the back of the opponent’s waist. The hands, feet, head, and neck are off-target. A point is scored by using the tip of the Fencing Foil.

Fencing Foils have a length of 43.31” (110 cm) and handguard diameter of 4.73” (12 cm). The mass of a Fencing Foil is 17.63 oz (500 g).

Measured illustration of a Fencing Foil dimensioned with overall length, width and depth
Fencing Foil is part of the 3 weapons used during the sport of Fencing. The Fencing Foil is made out of metal and has a rectangular blade. The blade is created to bend so it does not break or harm an opponent. The basic parts of the Fencing Foil are the pommel, grip, guard, and blade.

Fencing Foils have a length of 43.31” (110 cm) and handguard diameter of 4.73” (12 cm). The mass of a Fencing Foil is 17.63 oz (500 g).

Measured illustration of a Fencing Foil dimensioned with overall length, width and depth
Fencing Foil
Height:
Width:
4.73” | 12 cm (Handguard)
Length:
43.31” | 110 cm
Depth:
Weight:
17.63 oz | 500 g (Max)
Area:

Blade Length: 35.4” | 90 cm

Handle Length: 7.87” | 20 cm

Handguard Diameter: 4.73” | 12 cm
Materials: Maraging Steel

Drawings include:
Fencing Foil Elevations (various)

Details & Downloads

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