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The Basics on Equipment Most fencers start out purchasing a glove and a Sabre. It is helpful to get used to the grip and feel of your own weapon. Usually the next step is to get your own mask and jacket. The jacket can be either front or back zip. With a mask and jacket you can begin to practice at home with a stationary practice target. Typically the last items added are pants, socks, under arm protector, chest protector, and then shoes. Shoes are usually one of the last items most fencers purchase because in the first few months a fencer is learning the basic footwork skills, and fencing shoes make little difference. Glove – All fencers must wear a glove during practice and competitions. An official fencing glove is best. They usually cost around $10. Sabre – There are “practice” sabres, which are lighter weight and can be used for practice but not for competition. A more expensive, higher quality “dry” or “electrical” sabre is needed for competition. An electrical sabre has a small socket (bayonet connector) inside the bell for connecting to the body cord. Mask – A mask provides protection for your face and neck. A “dry” mask has a black mesh on the front. “Electric” masks are silver colored and can be used for practice and electrical fencing. Jacket – A jacket is worn to protect arms, chest, and back. Cotton or nylon jackets protect against the “sting” of hits, other jackets made of ballistic nylon are made to resist tearing and prevent impalement. Pants – Pants or “knickers” can be purchased in cotton, nylon, and more expensive materials. Shoes – Shoes with flexible soles and a sticky bottom surface work best. You may also purchase fencing shoes from vendors listed below. Socks - Should come as least to the knee and they are traditionally white. You can use soccer socks. Safety Issues Words of wisdom fro Gordon – “The equipment you choose to wear determines your safety. The sabre you hold, determines the safety of others.” Safety is a top priority of CBFA, therefore certain equipment requirements must be followed. Fencing should be both fun and safe! Recommendations & Requirements When Purchasing Equipment It is recommended that you purchase your Sabre from Leon Paul. They sell high quality merchandise that is more durable than other vendors. Sabres must be USFA certified. Crimson Blades Fencing Academy also requires that all sabers be S2000. (Note: some vendors will sell sabers that have the S2000 logo, but the stamp is not as deep as a true S2000 blade) When you purchase your Sabre you can select various components. Suggestions for those are as follows: - The preferred blade is the black blade (sold only at Leon Paul) (Paul-France blade if not available - The handle can be rubber - Do not purchase the Hungarian style lightweight guard. - The guard socket should be bayonet style (not two prong). - You will also need a hex nut insulated Sabre pommel Jackets come in right or left hand, depending on which hand you fence with. Be sure to purchase the proper jacket. You will also need a plastron, or under arm protector, to wear under your jacket (recommended for practice, required for competition). A 3-W washable glove is recommended and lasts about a year. Practice gloves do not have a hole for the body cord to go through. Note: You do not need to purchase FIE (international) equipment. Many of our fencers have liked the clothing and masks from Blue Gauntlet Fencing Gear. They sell quality equipment at reasonable prices. If you have equipment questions, please save those for after class.
You can purchase these from the following vendors: Jackets, pants, gloves, lame', masks, etc... BLUE GAUNTLET FENCING GEAR INC 280 NORTH MIDLAND AVE BLD N-1 SADDLE BROOK, NJ 07663 Phone: 201-797-3332 Fax: 201-797-9190 Website: www.blue-gauntlet.com Swords and parts... LEON PAUL USA 306 Candler Street ATLANTA, GA 30307-2034 Phone: 404-653-9933 (telephone hours M-F 12:00-7:00 pm EST) sales@leonpaulusa.com www.leonpaulusa.com Fun Stuff... BIG FOR OUR BRITCHES % CAROL LASKY 30 THE FENWAY BOSTON, MA 02215 Phone: 617-515-0955 Website: www.big4ourbritches.com Email:engarde@big4ourbritches.com Other vendor links are located at ...http://www.usfencing.org/usfa/content/view/1570/102/ |
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