There are three types of blades used in fencing today. They are:
The foil: This is the most common blade used by beginning fencers. It is very rectangular in shape. The point is the only portion of the blade which may be used to attack the opponent. It has a small bellguard and is the lightest of the three blades.
The epee: The epee has a very large bell guard and a wide blade. Under the rules for fencing with the epee the entire body is a target (target areas will be discussed more fully below). The bell guard thus serves to defend the arm from attack.
The saber: The saber is the only of the three weapons which allows attack with the full blade. Its bell guard is curved to defend the knuckles from being hit. Its blade is Y shaped and has a rolled tip.
Fencing Equipment
Aside from the blade, there is other equipment which a fencer must use. They are:
Fencing mask The fencing mask has a wire mesh face to allow you to see while at the same time protecting your face. It also contains a bib which protects your neck.
Plastron The plastron is worn under your jacket. It is hard to protect your torso and back from damage from the blade.
Fencing jacket The fencing jacket is worn over the plastron. It has long sleeves and is made of a thick material to protect from damage from the blade. It also has a thick straight collar which snaps around the neck to protect the neck from harm.
Fencing glove The fencing glove is worn only on the hand which holds the blade.
Fencing trousers Fencing trousers, like the jacket, are long and cover the entire leg. They are made from a thick material to protect from the blade, in case the leg is hit.