Épée

The épée (pronounced /ˈɛpeɪ/) is the modern derivative of the original duelling sword, the rapier, used in sport fencing. Épée is French for "sword". The weapon is similar to a foil (compared to a sabre), but has a stiffer blade that is V-shaped in cross-section, has a larger bell guard, and is heavier. The technique however, is somewhat different, as there are no rules regarding priority and right-of-way. In addition, the entire body area is a v... more

The épée (pronounced /ˈɛpeɪ/) is the modern derivative of the original duelling sword, the rapier, used in sport fencing. Épée is French for "sword". The weapon is similar to a foil (compared to a sabre), but has a stiffer blade that is V-shaped in cross-section, has a larger bell guard, and is heavier. The technique however, is somewhat different, as there are no rules regarding priority and right-of-way. In addition, the entire body area is a valid target area. While modern sport fencing has three weapons (foil, épée, and sabre), each a separate event, épée is the only one in which the entire body is the valid target area. Épée is the heaviest of the three modern fencing weapons. In most higher-level competitions a grounded metal piste is used to prevent floor hits from registering as touches. Unlike sabre and foil, in épée there are no right-of-way rules regarding attacking. Touches are awarded solely on the basis of which fencer makes a touch first, according to the electronic... less