SAFETY INFORMATION – WEAPONS

Last updated 8th June 2026

General
Weapons should be regularly inspected and checked to ensure they are in a safe, usable condition.

• Blades should be observed to ascertain if any portion displays obvious kinks or excessive plasticity that may lead to a break e.g., irregular or uneven curve or inability to correct such a bend by the usual straightening methods.
• If blades develop sharp edges or splinters, these should be smoothed off with an emery cloth.
• The end of the blade must be folded over onto itself or fashioned in one piece to form a button which, in the case of sabre blades, when viewed end on, must have a square or rectangular section of 4 mm. x 4 mm. minimum.

Almost all serious fencing injuries are caused by penetration by a broken blade, so please pay particular attention to the following section.

Weapons – Blades

To reduce the risk of broken blades, never use a blade (or fence with someone who is using such a blade) if any portion displays obvious kinks or excessive plasticity that may lead to a break – e.g., irregular or uneven curve or inability to correct such a bend. Consider using a blade made out of a special steel, such as Maraging steel.

Weapons – Blades for children

Children under the age of ten should fence with weapon blades of size 0; children under the age of 14 should normally fence with weapon blades of size 3 (Foil) and 2 (épée and sabre) or less, as required in competitions for their age.  This will enhance their safety, comfort, technique and enjoyment of our sport.

Weapons – Tips & Guards

Weapon tips should conform to the FIE requirements. Sabre blades should be checked regularly as wear and tear risks reducing the tip size, making the penetration risk higher.

The point of a non-electric foil or épée (including a dummy electric foil blade) must be covered with a commercially produced plastic button in good condition or an integrated button.

Weapon Guards

Continuous use of a weapon can leave sharp edges round the guard circumference, which are a potential hazard. Such guards must not be used. Guards which are dented enough to risk trapping a point must not be used.

A final reminder

Everyone participating in fencing is responsible for safety. If you think that a fencer/your opponent is fencing with an unsafe or unsecured protective equipment please alert a club or competition official.

Every incident (accident, injury or near miss) must be recorded using this form.

Click here for information on which weapons to use for each competition/activity type.

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