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WABUKAN Arsenal · Swords · Europe

Épée

The heaviest fencing weapon, from the duelling sword. The whole body is a target and there is no right of way.

Épée
Épée WABUKAN illustration

Also known as

épée; espada (fencing)

Origin and history

The épée descends from the duelling sword of the 19th century, when duels were often fought to first blood. Hence its rules: the whole body is target and there is no right of way. It has been Olympic since 1900.

Martial arts that use it

Olympic Fencing

Construction

A stiffer, triangular blade of up to 90 cm with a large bell guard; total weight up to 775 g. The electric tip must be pressed with at least 750 g of force to register a hit.

Basic techniques

Training

Beginners learn grip, posture and footwork first, then cutting and thrusting lines in solo forms or drills, usually with a wooden or blunt trainer. Paired drills with a partner come next, at slow speed, before any free sparring with protective gear.

Safety

Train with wooden, blunt or club-approved trainers; keep live blades for experienced practitioners under supervision. Check the blade, handle and fittings before every session, keep a clear space of at least two weapon lengths and never cut towards people.

Legality (general information)

Swords, knives and other edged weapons are regulated very differently from country to country (and sometimes from region to region): owning one at home is often allowed, while carrying it in public, buying it under a certain age or importing it may be restricted or banned. Practitioners usually transport them cased, out of reach and straight between home and dojo. This is general information, not legal advice: check the law where you live.

Did you know?

Two fencers who hit within 1/25 of a second of each other both score, a double touch that is impossible in foil and sabre.

More weapons

Sabre Gladius Montante Falcata Katana Wakizashi

Sources

Original WABUKAN text, written from these cross-checked sources (facts, not sentences).

  1. Wikipedia — %C3%89p%C3%A9e
  2. Wikipedia — Fencing