Differences between FIE and Standard equipment?

[Gimmped1]

whats the difference between FIE and standard equipment? Why are the costs so different?

[mrbiggs]

FIE equipment is made to FIE regulations. Non-FIE equipment is not.

Long story short, FIE clothing is more protective (and usually more comfortable, though that is due to the price, not requirements), and FIE blades last longer. Higher quality means higher price.

[DHCJr]

Besides, generally being of better quality, there is the adminstative cost. For much of the equipment (except Uniforms), you must either turn in samples and have and pay for multiple testing or for blades they do random destructive tests.

[Inquartata]

Fie on standard, Fie!
Fie on standard, Fie!


( With apologies to Lerner and Lowe. )

[Purple Fencer]

Fie on standard, Fie!
Fie on standard, Fie!


( With apologies to Lerner and Lowe. )

Nice "Camelot" quote!

BACK to the original question:

Masks....regular masks must withstand a 12kg punch and the bibs generally offer a resistance to penetration of 350 Newtons. The mesh on an FIE mask must withstand 25kg (although at tournements only the 12 kg punch is used...), the wires are also double crimped to keep them in place, and the bibs must be rated at 1600N.

Blades: Regular...standard carbon steel. FIE: Either maraging steel (approx 10 times tougher than carbon steel), or a NON-maraging steel that has the same longevity on a test rig.

Uniform items: Regular: The rules are vague....only stating that the material must be "robust", but moth man ufacturers go 350N at least. FIE: In THIS case, the actual jacket, knickers, and underarm protector aren't tested like the masks are....just the material they're made out of....800N minimum

The reason for the higher cost is -- as Donald said -- partly the costy of homolugation and partly the cost of materials.

[KD5MDK]

I must point out that the equipment quality is not by definition better: It just means that FIE equipment is made to a guarenteed standard. However, I can't think of any exceptions to the rule of thumb that any product from a brand that is offered in FIE and non-FIE versions, the FIE version is better.