An interesting tip problem in epee

[remise]

The other night, I tested one of my epees, and the tip only 'fired' intermittently. I checked the wire, which tested out good. By that, I mean I wanted to make sure there wasn't a break in it anywhere, particularly in or around the barrel, or grounding out near the guard, but the wire was fine. However, I noticed that one of the tiny contact points in the cup was "off" a bit, slightly deformed. I'm wondering if perhaps if that could be creating my problem.

[pgepps]

Could be that. Also check whether your contact spring is pushed too far up on the tip or is compressed too much. You might try to back it off just a tiny bit or, ever so gently (and with a spare handy), to stretch the contact spring. Of course, if you do that too much, it won't pass shims, so easy does it.

[DHCJr]

Yes that can be a problem. If there is a big difference the spring because of the continuous hit will sometimes push to the side. Lengthening a spring is an option.

Suggestion, don't use a Epee shim. I suggest to Fencers, not to buy Shims, sorry vendors, Shims should be bought by Armorers and Organizers. Buy Automotive shims. Then you can know how much you need to adjust and can get it in a range. Armorers also buy automotive shims in addition to Epee shims. Also, suppose the shims at the strip are at the thinest legal limit or have not been check or been worn and your gauges are on the thick side. If the Epee passes your shims and fails the strip shim, who loses?

Negini, does have some interesting guages with multiple shim thicknesses, but automotive are usually cheaper and have more range.

[Purple Fencer]

Suggestion, don't use a Epee shim. I suggest to Fencers, not to buy Shims, sorry vendors,