Whitchurch Fencing Club

Acquiring your own kit

After completing your Beginners Course, you may be wondering about purchasing your own kit.

Firstly, as a recent beginner, you are welcome to use any kit available in the Club, when not required for use by new beginners. However, in the long run you will probably wish to acquire your own kit. This can be expensive, and you wish to earmark something as a “birthday present” from a relative, or friend.

In terms of prioritising what you buy, it is probably best to acquire a mask & jacket first, as these are essential, and a sword and breeches later. You will however also need a glove and plastron, as these are safety items, and if fencing electric, a body wire.

Fencing suppliers
Some well known suppliers are
    Leon Paul
    PBT-UK
    SwordPriceFighters
    * Excalibur Sports
    * New

There is also usually a stand from one of the main Fencing Suppliers at the Welsh Open, each November, in the Welsh Institute of Sport, Sophia Gardens.

In mentioning these suppliers, this is not a recommendation to use any particular one of these. You are advised to discuss this with the Club Coaches, and other members to learn their preferences & experiences.

Body wires - the one exception to this is Body Wires, where we recommend Leon Paul, as, in our experience, their body wires are generally a better 'fit' with different swords (and are easier to repair, should the need arise ..).

Club discount - the Club obtains a discount on some items with some suppliers for orders placed centrally by the Club. Please consult one of the Club Coaches for further details.

Buying second-hand
If buying second-hand, or using equipment passed on from family & friends, you must bear in mind that safety is paramount. Fortunately injury in fencing is rare - however as almost all serious fencing injuries are caused by broken blades, do not use any equipment which is damaged, or has visible signs of wear and tear, or rusting. Note that masks should have an elastic (or similar) back strap.

BFA standards
Over the years the standards for fencing equipment have tightened, and the BFA have stipulated the following, in terms of ability to withstand the force of an opponent’s blade, as measured in Newtons (N), the international unit of force. Equipment from all reputable suppliers will have its strength in newtons clearly marked on it. Please remember that breeches are essential for fencing electric.

It is advisable only to use equipment of the correct standard, in order to obtain maximum protection.

	Jackets	Plastrons	Breeches	Mask
Fencing / practicing with non-electric weapons	350N	350N	Trousers with openings / pockets zipped/ closed	350N
Fencing / practicing with electric weapons	350N	800N	350N	350N
International (etc) competitions	800N	800N	800N	800N

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