I have not been here in a while. I have some catching up to do.

Having fenced for several years with Vniti blades, I am experimenting with something stiffer. I have a Chevalier FIE from f.net that I am using. So far so good. Not as flicky (obviously) but I am still able to land a flick to the wrist if my timing and everything is right. Not as easy, but definitely doable. On the whole, I feel like I have better control of where my weapon's tip is. Next week I will try using one of my old Vniti's for the first time in about a month. If I try the new blade and the old blade in two successive bouts and when I make note of the the differences, I should be able to make a decision about whether to go whole-hog or not.

Other than that, I am prepping for NY's Empire State Games "Masters" division epee. There are only 7 entrants this year. The cost is in the $40-50 range, so this is probably the last year I will do ESG's. That investment could get me two USFA tournaments with more than twice as many competitors elsewhere. ESG's is, however, a chance to get together and fence with some old friends. (no pun intended)