Foil

• Length: 110cm
• Weight: Up to 500g
• Strike weapon only
• Hit scored by striking point of weapon on defined target area of opponent, limited to the torso
• Non-valid hits also stop the bout but not counted
• Governed by the rules of right of way
• Fencer who starts an attack has right of way.
• To avoid being hit, opposing fencer will usually attempt to parry attack and, if successful, riposte

Epee

• Length: 110cm
• Weight: Up to 770g
• Strike weapon only – a hit can only be made with the tip
• Target area is the entire body, head to toe, including clothing and equipment
• No right of way rules regarding attacks
• Any hit is counted
• Points awarded to fencer who makes a touch first according to electronic scoring machines

Sabre

• Length: 105cm
• Weight: Up to 500g
• A hit can be made with either the tip of the blade or the cutting edge.
• Target area everything above the waist, including head and both arms
• Governed by the rules of right of way
• Fencer who starts attack has right of way
• To avoid being hit, opposing fencer will usually attempt to parry attack and, if successful, riposte.