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fencing weapons
In the Olympic Games, the foil, the épée and the saber are used by both men and women.
parts of the weapon
Weapons can be thrusting (touch made with the tip of the blade), cutting (with the blade) or slicing (with the back edge).
guard
Metal rounded part that protects the armed hand during a match.
blade
Hitting part of the weapon; measuring about 90 cm long, it is made of flexible metal and is thin and tapered.
handle
Wood, metal or plastic part for holding and wielding the weapon.
mounting
Part of the weapon to which the blade is attached.
medium
Part of the blade between the forte and the foible.
forte
Thickest part of the blade, near the guard.
foible
Thinnest part of the blade, up to its end.
pommel
Metal knob at the end of the handle to balance the weapon.